European Commission Reviews Child Safety Measures on Snapchat, YouTube, and App Stores

The European Commission has begun reviewing how platforms such as Snapchat, YouTube, Apple’s App Store, and Google Play protect minors online under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The investigation focuses on whether these companies’ safeguards are sufficient to prevent young users from being exposed to illegal products or harmful content.

The Commission has requested detailed information on age verification tools and on how the platforms block access to content promoting illegal substances, including drugs and vapes, as well as to material that could encourage eating disorders.

EU technology chief Henna Virkkunen said the assessment, carried out in cooperation with national authorities, aims to determine whether platforms are truly protecting children.

Google stated it already enforces “robust parental controls” and offers “age-appropriate experiences” across its platforms. “We keep expanding these efforts and continue to engage with the Commission on this critical area,” a Google spokesperson said.

The DSA, which came into full effect in 2024, imposes strict obligations on digital platforms to identify and mitigate risks linked to illegal or harmful content — marking one of the EU’s strongest steps toward regulating online safety for minors.