Children’s code strategy: call for evidence

Help shape the future of children's online privacy

The Children's code is a statutory code of practice that explains how the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) applies in the context of children using digital services. It includes 15 standards for age-appropriate design that, when followed, help organisations safeguard children's personal data.

In April 2024, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) published its Children's code strategy, highlighting their achievements so far, and their focus on how social media and video-sharing platforms, which many children use, handle children's personal information.

As part of its work, the ICO is seeking feedback on two key areas of the strategy.

The use of children's personal information in recommender systems including:

• how children's information is currently being used to design such systems and recommend content to children on social media and video-sharing platforms
• examples of good practice related to the collection and use of children's personal information in recommender systems.

The use of personal information of children under 13 years old including:

• evidence on how profiling identifies children under 13
• evidence on methods to prevent children from bypassing age checks
• use and development of innovative age assurance practices

You should read the ICO's Children's code strategy progress update to understand their initial findings and actions, before you respond to the call for evidence.

You can submit your response through the ICO's online form. Alternatively, download the call for evidence questions and email your responses to ChildrensCodeCfe@ico.org.uk.

Your feedback will help inform the ICO's ongoing work to ensure platforms protect children's privacy.

First published 6 September 2024