EU publishes draft KIDS Act: new rules for online games

On September 17, the European Commission published a draft of the proposed EU KIDS Act (Keeping Internet Digital Spaces Accountable and Trustworthy). The rules ban under-13s and restrict under-15s on social networks, and impose requirements on online games: no mechanics encouraging excessive play, restricted contact between minors, and mandatory parental controls and age assurance.

• Ban for under-13s and restrictions for under-15s apply to social networks and video platforms
• Online games in the EU must implement parental controls and age assurance
• Mechanics like daily login bonuses and penalties for skipping play may be banned for minors
• Rules cover games with online modes, from Roblox to multiplayer in disc-based titles