Clifford Chance

"The multi-layered rules on protecting children online are increasing and diversifying globally. In Europe, for instance, EU-wide legislation must be understood in combination with national laws and regulatory guidance. Adopting a holistic approach across digital services and horizon scanning to anticipate changes and take account of best practices will be key factors in successfully navigating requirements for child protection in the digital world."

"How we protect children from digital harms is in the spotlight. There is vocal consensus on the need to do so, but significant divergence in what that protection should look like. In the US, this legal landscape is evolving on both federal and state levels. A broader range of organizations than ever before will be navigating practical challenges around age-assurance, parental consent, and limited collection of data through a patchwork of laws and regulations."

"Fundamental rights and principles aimed at guaranteeing children’s well-being are taking on a new and very concrete meaning in the digital context. Policy-makers, legislators and regulators across the world are working to protect the digital child in the face of growing challenges relating to an ever-more connected world. In the EU, a broad range of rules already applies, and more will follow soon."

"Children globally are embracing the online world and expanding their digital footprint at an unprecedented pace. The urgency to shield our youth from digital perils is gaining prominence across APAC. Whilst there is a resounding agreement on the importance to protect, the approaches are as diverse as the region itself. We are witnessing an evolving regulatory mosaic, with nations at various stages of implementing measures to foster a safer online environment for children. It is expected that more specific regulations will be implemented across the region."

"Implementing satisfactory online access controls to ensure children cannot access content that is harmful or may impar their development is not straightforward. Often, regulations do not specify what constitutes the specific technical access controls or age-verification measures that must be put in place, and there is limited guidance from authorities at this stage. Striking a balance between effectiveness of controls and privacy can also be challenging. In the EU, things are moving, as a number of regulators began working on guidance and standards on the matter. Watching this space will be key for providers."