#children safety

EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath announced that the European Commission plans to propose new legislation by the end of this year to enhance online consumer protection, granting itself powers to fine large tech companies and smaller online merchants for failing to protect consumers, especially children, from deceptive design patterns and addictive features. This regulatory push could fundamentally change how tech companies design user interfaces and business models, forcing them to prioritize consumer welfare over engagement metrics. It also signals a broader trend of governments using financial penalties to enforce online safety, potentially setting a global precedent. The new rules target dark patterns, addictive design, and subscription traps. The EU also seeks enforcement powers over cross-border systemic cases, applicable to both large platforms covered by existing digital rules and smaller online merchants and game developers.