The European Data Protection Board has highlighted the urgent need to protect children's personal data online, emphasizing that kids are particularly vulnerable to data exploitation and require special safeguards under GDPR.
As Data Protection Day 2026 approaches, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has issued a stark reminder about the vulnerability of children's personal data in the digital ecosystem. The board's statement emphasizes that children are particularly susceptible to online risks and require enhanced protection under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The EDPB's focus on children's data protection comes at a critical time when young internet users are increasingly exposed to data collection practices through educational platforms, social media, gaming applications, and connected devices. Children often lack the maturity to understand the implications of sharing personal information online, making them prime targets for data exploitation.
Under GDPR Article 8, parental consent is required for processing children's data when they are below the age of 16, though member states can lower this to 13. The regulation recognizes that children merit specific protection because they may be less aware of the risks, consequences, and safeguards involved in data processing. The EDPB has consistently advocated for stricter enforcement of these provisions, particularly in cases involving online services targeting minors.
Recent enforcement actions have demonstrated the board's commitment to this cause. Several major technology companies have faced substantial fines for failing to adequately protect children's data, with violations ranging from insufficient age verification mechanisms to opaque privacy policies that children cannot reasonably understand. The EDPB has called for more robust age assurance technologies and clearer consent mechanisms that account for children's cognitive development.
The board also highlighted the growing concern around educational technology platforms that have proliferated during the pandemic. Many of these services collect extensive data on children's learning patterns, behavioral traits, and personal information without adequate safeguards. The EDPB recommends that educational institutions conduct thorough data protection impact assessments before adopting such technologies and ensure that any data processing serves a legitimate educational purpose.
For parents and guardians, the EDPB advises taking an active role in monitoring children's online activities and understanding the privacy policies of services they use. The board suggests that companies should provide child-friendly explanations of their data practices and implement privacy-by-design principles that prioritize children's protection from the outset.
As Data Protection Day 2026 is observed across Europe and beyond, the EDPB's message is clear: protecting children's personal data online is not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental responsibility. The board continues to work with national data protection authorities to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure that the digital environment becomes safer for the youngest and most vulnerable users.
The European Data Protection Board's ongoing efforts reflect a broader recognition that in an increasingly connected world, safeguarding children's privacy requires constant vigilance, technological innovation, and unwavering commitment to their fundamental rights.
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