Bill > A06549

This bill establishes the New York Children's Online Safety Act, which requires online platforms to implement several key protections for minors under 18 years old. The bill mandates that covered platforms (websites or apps where users can create profiles, post content, and message each other) must conduct age verification to identify users under 18, referred to as "covered minors." For these covered minors, platforms must utilize strict default privacy settings that prevent non-connected users from directly messaging them, viewing their profiles, tagging them in content, or engaging in financial transactions. For minors under 13, parents must approve all new connections and can easily view their child's connected users and transaction history. The bill also prohibits platforms from using "dark patterns" that would make it difficult for parents or users to exercise their rights, and ensures that platforms cannot discriminate against users by reducing service quality or increasing prices due to these new requirements. The Attorney General is tasked with creating regulations for age verification methods and will have the authority to bring actions against platforms that violate these provisions, with potential penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. The law aims to enhance online safety and parental control for children and teenagers using digital platforms.

Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6549