On February 11, 2025, the European Data Protection Board
("EDPB") issued
a statement outlining its expectations for aligning the
proliferating use of age assurance checks with the GDPR (the
"Statement"). Aiming to promote a
harmonized approach across the EU, the Statement provides guidance
and high-level principles for online service providers
("Service Providers"). It emphasizes the
need to consider the best interests of the child—whether in
terms of data protection, safeguarding from harm, or broader
welfare—while ensuring compatibility more widely with all
individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms, including those
relating to privacy, non-discrimination, integrity and free
speech.