Online Age Assurance

Our latest report (which can be downloaded at the link above) is designed to help companies navigate online age assurance regulations in the EU and the UK.

Online age assurance has rapidly ascended the policy agenda in the EU and UK, driven by concerns over children’s exposure to harmful content and behaviours. In response, regulators have set out the need for stronger safeguards to keep children safe online, as illustrated by recent activity by both Ofcom and the European Commission.

However, age assurance requirements across Europe remain fragmented, given the need to comply with other relevant regulation that has been implemented at national level. Therefore, a number of practical challenges arise for in-scope companies, as an age assurance approach considered appropriate in one country may not be compliant in another. Companies must also balance compliance obligations with wider business considerations, such as ensuring a smooth user journey and maintaining trust.

Getting age assurance right is critical. Failure to do so may expose firms to substantial financial penalties (up to 6% or 10% of global annual revenue in the EU and UK respectively), reputational damage, and erosion of user trust.

Bringing together Deloitte experts from across Europe, this report starts by exploring the key themes and criteria emerging from a cross-jurisdictional analysis of age assurance regulations, brought to life by two hypothetical case studies. It then sets out the key operational and strategic considerations that online services should keep in mind when developing their age assurance approach. Lastly, the report maps age assurance regulations and initiatives across the UK, EU and seven Member States, providing a frame of reference for online service providers navigating this evolving regulatory landscape.

Register for our forthcoming webinar

If you're interested in learning more, please register to attend our dedicated webinar on 23 October 2025. We will present key findings from our report, and a panel of Deloitte experts from across Europe will address key strategic and operational implications for companies and how Deloitte can support.