The JMStV (Jugendmedienschutz-Staatsvertrag) is the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media in Germany, which, firstly, requires content providers to classify content according to its suitability for different age groups (e.g. “suitable for all ages”, “16 and older”, etc.). Content that is harmful but not outright banned (e.g. certain horror films or violent video games) must then be appropriately restricted.
For certain types of content unsuitable for younger audiences, the JMStV also imposes time-based restrictions on when they can be broadcast (e.g. late-night slots for adult content). Online services are required to implement technical measures, such as age verification systems, to restrict access to content unsuitable for minors.
This federal law applies to all forms of electronic media, including traditional broadcasting (TV and radio), on-demand services, websites, social media, and video-sharing platforms. It covers both linear (e.g. TV broadcasts) and non-linear (e.g. online streaming, downloadable content) media. While the JMStV primarily targets platforms operating within Germany, it can extend to overseas platforms if they have a significant presence in or specifically target the German market.
The Treaty was first agreed in 2002 and came into force the following year. It was updated in 2010 and again in 2020, with the final changes designed to include video-sharing platforms and obligations for platforms to implement effective age verification systems and content moderation practices.
Violations of the JMStV can result in substantial fines for content providers. The amount depends on the severity of the infraction and the number of times the violation has occurred. In extreme cases, authorities can order the blocking of access to certain online content or even shut down websites that persistently violate the JMStV. Authorities may also issue public warnings or orders requiring the removal of specific content.
Verifymy can assist services in excluding minors altogether, as well as determining the age range of child users to implement limits on access to age-rated content. Our services also include content moderation for sites to detect and remove illegal or harmful content.
Verifymy’s age assurance solution for any online product, service or business, features the widest range of age verification and age estimation methods to ensure the highest pass rates possible with minimal business disruption.
