The European Union will roll out digital age verification across all member states by 2026. Under the Digital Services Act, this mandate requires platforms to verify user age using the new EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW). Non-compliance could lead to fines of up to €18 million or 10% of global turnover. Initially, five countries will pilot the system designed to protect minors and promote online safety. The EUDIW uses privacy-preserving cryptographic proofs, allowing users to prove they are over 18 without uploading personal IDs. Unlike the UK’s ID-upload approach, which triggered a rise in VPN usage, the EU model prioritises user anonymity and data minimisation. Scytales and T-Systems develop the system.