- Deutsche Telekom and Scytáles to develop privacy-focused age verification for the EU Digital Identity Wallet.
- The solution aligns with the EU’s Digital Services Act and Better Internet for Kids (BIK+) strategy.
What happened: Deutsche Telekom and Scytáles partner for EU Digital Wallet Age Verification
The European Commission has appointed Deutsche Telekom AG and Scytáles AB to develop an age verification system for the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet). This initiative is part of the EU’s broader Digital Services Act (DSA) and aims to enable citizens to verify their age online while safeguarding privacy and minimising personal data disclosure.
The system will allow access to age-restricted services without unnecessary data sharing, ensure accessibility for users with disabilities, and comply with stringent EU privacy standards. Konstantin Papaxanthis, CEO of Scytáles, highlighted the system’s role in supporting the Better Internet for Kids (BIK+) strategy and simplifying digital interactions for EU citizens.
Meanwhile, Ferri Abolhassan, CEO of Deutsche Telekom’s T-Systems, emphasised the technology’s potential to enhance digital sovereignty and enable passwordless authentication for online services. The project, funded by the Digital Europe Programme, builds on Deutsche Telekom’s existing efforts, including digital identity trials for mobile phone activation and contracts with German health insurers.
Also read: Europe’s Digital Services Act applies in full from February 18
Also read: Eurostat: Internet access and digital economy grow across EU
Why it’s important
The development of the EUDI Wallet age verification system represents a significant step in the EU’s digital strategy, which mandates member states to implement digital identity wallets by 2026. This system addresses critical challenges in online age verification, such as privacy concerns and data protection, while ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
By limiting personal data disclosure, the solution aligns with the EU’s commitment to digital sovereignty and user control over data. Moreover, the integration of this system into existing digital services will streamline access to age-restricted content and services, benefiting both citizens and businesses.
The project also supports the EU’s Better Internet for Kids (BIK+) strategy, aiming to create a safer online environment for minors. As digital identity solutions gain traction across sectors, this initiative underscores the EU’s leadership in fostering secure and privacy-centric digital ecosystems.
