Consumer Protection Minister Advocates Tighter Regulation of Gambling in Children's Digital Environments

Germany's Federal Minister for Consumer Protection is calling for stricter regulations at the European level to address the growing prevalence of commercial gambling mechanisms within digital environments accessed by children and adolescents. The push for legislative change comes amidst heightened concerns about the safety and fairness of online platforms, particularly in the context of the annual Safer Internet Day.

According to the Ministry, there is a persistent gap between existing regulations and their enforcement. While numerous laws exist to protect online users--ranging from data protection and consumer contract rights to frameworks such as the Digital Services Act--rapid innovation by service providers often outpaces regulatory oversight. As a result, users continue to encounter manipulative business models and potentially addictive digital features, prompting calls for harmonized and enforceable rules at the European level.

Public Concerns Over Manipulative Practices

A recent survey commissioned by the Consumer Protection Ministry reveals that many citizens are increasingly wary of practices designed to maximize user attention or exploit personal weaknesses. The majority of respondents expressed support for banning data-driven personalization strategies targeting vulnerabilities or addictive behaviors. Additionally, 82% favor mandatory price transparency for virtual currencies used in games and apps, advocating that their value be clearly displayed in euros. Over 70% also support the introduction of pre-set spending limits for in-game purchases.

However, the survey indicates less consensus when it comes to perceptions of manipulation and self-control. Respondents were divided on whether they felt manipulated by digital services, spent more time than intended, or exceeded planned expenditures on virtual goods, highlighting the complexity of addressing these issues through legislation alone.

Gambling Features in Video Games Under Scrutiny

Particular attention is being given to gambling-like elements within video games, such as loot boxes, which have become increasingly prevalent in titles aimed at younger audiences. The Ministry identifies these features as a significant concern, arguing that commercial gambling has no place in environments frequented by minors. This perspective is widely shared among surveyed internet users, with nearly 80% supporting a ban on gambling-like content in games accessible to minors.

Despite this strong public sentiment, clear legislative definitions and boundaries are still needed to distinguish between various forms of in-game gambling mechanics--whether that be loot boxes, in-game casinos, or features embedded in game logic. Policymakers are expected to develop precise criteria to regulate or prohibit these mechanisms effectively.

Debate Over Age Verification and Data Protection

The discussion around protecting minors online extends to requirements for age verification. While 81% of survey participants believe that service providers should be obligated to perform age checks, nearly half are concerned about the impact of such measures on data privacy. Balancing effective child protection with the preservation of user privacy remains a key challenge for legislators and digital service providers alike.

When asked about broader risks on the internet, survey respondents cited insufficient data protection and security as their top concerns, followed by problematic business practices. Other issues--such as the lack of youth protection or cybercrime--were noted but ranked lower in perceived urgency.

In response to these findings, the European Commission is planning to negotiate the proposed Digital Fairness Act by the end of 2026. This initiative aims to strengthen consumer rights and update the legal framework governing interactions between consumers and businesses online. Stakeholders expect the Act to address gaps in current regulations, especially in areas related to data use, artificial intelligence, and the responsibilities of digital platforms.

Efforts to achieve a safer digital environment for children and adolescents will continue to be a priority for both national and European policymakers. The ongoing debate underscores the need for comprehensive, enforceable standards that adapt to technological advancements while safeguarding the interests of vulnerable users.