On 11 February 2025, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has released a new statement outlining key principles and concerns regarding age assurance measures on online platforms. The document provides guidance for organisations implementing age verification and estimation technologies while ensuring compliance with EU data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

The EDPB highlights the need for a privacy-preserving approach to age assurance, stressing against excessive data collection and the potential risks associated with biometric and AI-based age verification methods.

Furthermore, the statement urges online platforms to prioritise the rights of children, ensuring that any age assurance mechanisms do not lead to unnecessary profiling or undermine their fundamental rights.

During the same plenary session, the EDPB also adopted recommendations on the 2027 WADA World Anti-Doping Code. When processing personal data for anti-doping purposes, it is essential to respect and safeguard the personal data of athletes, as this will involve the processing of sensitive personal data, such as health data derived from biological samples. Notably, the EDPB’s main objective is to assess the compatibility of the WADA Anti-doping Code and International Standard for Data Protection (ISDP) with the GDPR.

This topic is of particular relevance to Fondazione Gianni Benzi, as Professor Gianni Benzi was not only a distinguished scientist but also a passionate advocate for clean sport and the fight against addictions in general. In addition, the Foundation is particularly attentive to regulatory provisions that aim to protect sensitive health data while ensuring its necessary processing, whether for compliance with anti-doping measures or for research purposes.

For further details on EDPB recommendations, visit the EDPB’s official website.