Italy: Adopted AGCOM draft regulation on the technical and process methods for ascertaining the age of majority of users

On 24 September 2024, the Italian Communications Regulatory Authority (AGCOM) adopted the draft regulation on the technical and process methods for ascertaining the age of the majority of users. The regulation applies to online service providers disseminating content that may harm minors, particularly pornographic materials. The regulation imposes obligations such as implementing age verification mechanisms to enhance the protection of minors, utilising a double anonymity model for proof of age, and requiring certified independent third parties for verification. The regulation mandates compliance with principles of proportionality, general data protection regulation, security, functionality, inclusiveness, transparency, and complaints management. The draft regulation is submitted to the European Commission for final review.