United States of America: Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) (S 2073) was introduced to the Senate

On 21 June 2023, the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (S.2073) was introduced into the US Congress. The Act applies to digital platforms, particularly those with more than 10 million active monthly users in the US that predominantly provide community forums or user-generated content, and requires the platforms to mitigate the risks of harm posed to minors by the materials on the platform. The Act imposes several obligations on digital platforms, including implementing safeguards against harms like mental health disorders, addiction-like behaviours, and online abuse, as well as preventing the promotion of harmful substances and deceptive marketing practices. The Act prohibits the use of dark patterns to manipulate user choices and mandates transparency regarding the use of opaque algorithms. The Act also requires platforms to furnish detailed annual report, based on independent audits, assessing the risks and mitigation measures for minors.