February 12, 2026, 7:03 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The European Union (EU) Commission has declared war on cyberbullying. With the new action plan, the EU aims to better protect children and teenagers, relying on a dedicated app to provide quick and easy support to those affected.
As reported by “heise,” the app will allow users to report incidents directly, secure evidence, and find appropriate support services. The French app “3018,” which already offers support for digital violence, serves as a model. The EU plans to pass this model on to member states, which will then adapt, translate, and integrate it with their support services.
App Against Online Bullying
The new app is also set to be integrated into major online services. The goal is to make it easier for those affected to access support services without having to search extensively for contacts. EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef emphasized that reporting bullying should be easier than bullying itself.
According to the EU, about one in six children between the ages of 11 and 15 in Europe has already been a victim of cyberbullying. Girls, young women, minorities, and children from low-income households are particularly affected.
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AI Exacerbates the Problem
Artificial intelligence is also playing an increasing role. AI can be used to create manipulated images or videos, including so-called sexualized deepfakes. These are convincingly realistic, AI-generated content, such as fake nude images. Such images and videos spread quickly online and can cause significant harm. The European AI Act is set to specifically address these forms of abuse in the third quarter of 2026.
Also of interest: Abuse with AI-generated nude images is increasing – Lawyer explains rights
More Prevention and Stricter Rules
In addition to the app, the EU is planning further measures. New guidelines for schools are to be published this year, integrating cyberbullying more strongly into media education. The legal basis remains the Digital Services Act (DSA), which requires large platforms to make their services safer for minors. The EU Commission is currently reviewing whether existing regulations need to be tightened further.
Meanwhile, several EU countries are discussing stricter age limits for social networks. In the United Kingdom, for example, significantly stricter regulations have been in place since the Online Safety Act came into effect. Social media platforms must implement stronger protection mechanisms for minors, filter content appropriately for age, and conduct effective age verification. Providers that do not comply with these requirements risk hefty fines.
The exact release date of the new app is not yet known. With the package of measures, the EU is holding platforms more accountable while ensuring that those affected receive faster and more direct support.