In November 2023, MYM, the French fansite, joined an unprecedented collective initiative to enhance the safety of young users on social networks.

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Alongside AFNOR (the French Standardization Association), MYM actively contributed to the creation of a new industry reference standard aimed at better protecting minors on online platforms. Published on November 23, 2023, the guide, titled “Prevention and Protection of Minors on Social Networks”, offers concrete recommendations to complement existing regulations and create a safer digital environment.‍

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Addressing growing risks for young users online‍

With the rise of social media, minors face increasing risks such as:

🔹 Privacy breaches and data exposure

🔹 Inappropriate content that isn’t age-appropriate

🔹 Cyberbullying and online harassment

🔹 Digital violence and harmful interactions

Given these challenges, a collective response was urgently needed to ensure a safer, more responsible online space for young users.‍

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A multi-industry collaboration for safer digital spaces‍

To tackle this issue, AFNOR brought together over 20 key players in the tech industry, including:

🔹 Major platforms like Meta, TikTok, and MYM‍

🔹 Tech leaders such as Docaposte and Point de Contact‍

🔹 Nonprofits & regulatory bodies like Respect Zone, CNIL, and ARCOM‍

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Together, they developed a best practice guide to help platforms go beyond legal requirements and implement stronger safety measures for minors.

The guide focuses on four key areas:

✅ User verification – Strengthening age and identity checks

✅ Content moderation – Detecting and removing harmful content

✅ Transparency & awareness – Educating parents and young users

✅ Legal compliance – Aligning with key regulations like the European Digital Services Act

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MYM’s commitment to safer online experiences‍

Since its launch, MYM has prioritized online safety, implementing advanced age verification and identity authentication tools. This initiative aligns with the vision of MYM’s co-founders, Pierre Garonnaire and Gaspard Hafner, who advocate for stronger security standards for young users.‍

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Paul Benelli, MYM’s Legal Director, emphasizes the importance of this collective approach:‍

“We’re proud to have contributed to this standard, which provides practical guidance for effective moderation and protecting minors online. These recommendations help platforms align with current laws while adopting the latest security standards.”‍

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Building a Safer Digital Future‍

Through this AFNOR initiative, MYM and its partners are equipping digital platforms with practical tools to create safer online environments for young users. The goal is to set a new industry benchmark, inspiring more companies to adopt proactive safety measures and contribute to a more responsible digital space for future generations.

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