Commission survey shows children want better rules to ensure digital fairness for all

Children want the online world to be safer and fairer, according to a survey published by the European Commission today. In April 2026, the Commission surveyed almost 5,000 children from all EU Member States through the EU Children’s Participation Platform, and focused on matters related to the upcoming Digital Fairness Act (DFA), planned for later this year. 

Nearly half (48%) of the children surveyed called for rules on addictive design features that keep users online for longer. More than half (58%) wanted better protection from personalised advertising and pricing. Almost 7 in 10 (69%) said influencers should only be allowed to promote products to children that are safe and appropriate. Most (72%) favoured some form of age verification on social media. 

The Commission will use these findings to prepare for the DFA, which will aim to make EU consumer protection rules fit for the digital age, paying particular attention to the protection of young consumers. 

Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, said: “Young people are often the first to adopt new technologies and navigate new digital spaces. They are among the first to be affected when it comes to digital fairness. We must be attentive to their concerns so we can adapt our consumer rules to the digital environment in the most fitting way. They are vulnerable consumers too and should be able to make purchases with confidence and trust.” 

This survey follows the Youth Policy Dialogue hosted by Commissioner McGrath on 18 June. The survey results are available online.