Overview

This bill mandates minimum standards for age verification systems used by online services and products in the UK. The aim is to better protect children online while ensuring that age checks are implemented fairly and proportionately.

Description

The bill requires all age assurance systems used for online services or products in the UK to meet minimum standards set by Ofcom within six months of the Act’s passage. These standards must:

• Protect user privacy according to data protection laws.
• Be proportionate to the risks and purpose of the service.
• Offer child-appropriate functionality.
• Be secure, preventing unauthorized data disclosure.
• Provide mechanisms for users to challenge incorrect age identification.
• Be accessible to users of all abilities.
• Not unduly restrict children's access to appropriate services (e.g., news, education).
• Provide clear information about its operation.
• Effectively verify age or age range.
• Not rely solely on self-reported age.
• Comply with relevant legislation including the Data Protection Act 2018, the Age Appropriate Design Code, the Human Rights Act 1998, the Equality Act 2010, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The bill also grants Ofcom enforcement powers, mirroring those of the Information Commissioner, to ensure compliance. These powers will be defined through regulations approved by Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The cost will likely involve Ofcom's work in setting standards and enforcing compliance, as well as any associated legal and administrative costs. Specific budgetary implications would need to be assessed following the bill's passage.

Groups Affected

• Online service providers: They must ensure their age verification systems meet the new standards, potentially incurring costs for system upgrades and compliance.
• Users (children and adults): The bill aims to better protect children, but could also impact user experience, depending on the specific methods used for age verification.
• Ofcom: They will be responsible for setting the standards and enforcing compliance, requiring additional resources.

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