Global Privacy Regulators Launch 2025 Sweep on Children's Data Protection

More than 30 data protection and privacy authorities worldwide, including Canada's Office of the Privacy Commissioner and the UK Information Commissioner's Office, are participating in the 2025 Global Privacy Enforcement Network privacy sweep focused on children’s online privacy. From November 3 to 7, regulators will examine websites and mobile apps commonly used by children to assess whether they collect children’s personal information appropriately, are transparent about their privacy practices, have effective age assurance mechanisms, and implement protective controls. This sweep marks the tenth anniversary of a similar initiative conducted in 2015, allowing authorities to compare progress over the decade. The initiative underscores the importance of protecting children in the digital space, which offers opportunities for learning and socializing but also exposes young users to risks like tracking, profiling, and harmful content. The Global Privacy Enforcement Network facilitates cross-border cooperation and enforcement of privacy laws, aiming to raise awareness, encourage compliance, and identify areas needing targeted education or enforcement. A report detailing the findings of this sweep is expected to be published in the coming months.