Legal definitions
In France, a “minor” is defined as a person under 18 years of age. The age of consent for sexual activity is 15 years.
French law does not provide a single definition of “child sexual exploitation,” but relevant offenses include corruption of a minor, solicitation, and sexual offenses involving minors. There is no statutory definition of “sexually explicit conduct,” but related conduct is addressed through offenses such as sexual exhibition and sexual harassment.
“Child sexual abuse” is defined as sexual acts committed with violence, coercion, threat, or surprise. “Child pornography” or child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is defined as pornographic images, including computer-generated or altered pornographic images, of minors.
“Enticement” or grooming is addressed through provisions criminalizing sexual propositions made by an adult to a minor under 15 through electronic communications. “Sextortion” is not defined but may fall under offenses such as extortion, blackmail, or corruption of a minor.
Regulatory requirements/recommendations
As an EU Member State, France is subject to the Digital Services Act (DSA), which does not require online platforms to proactively monitor all user content. However, online platforms are required to implement notice-and-action mechanisms, remove illegal content such as CSAM once aware of it, and take proportionate measures to mitigate systemic risks, including risks to children.
Age verification requirements/recommendations
In France, online platforms providing pornographic content are legally required to implement strict age-verification measures. These systems must comply with technical standards set by ARCOM (French Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication), ensuring user data confidentiality, independence of the verification provider, and double anonymity. ARCOM monitors compliance and may impose sanctions for violations.
Parental consent requirements/recommendations
French law requires social network providers to refuse registration of minors under 15 without parental authorization and to use technical solutions to verify age and consent.
Legal remedies for child victims
Children who are victims of online sexual exploitation may seek court orders requiring removal of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and measures to prevent further harm. Courts may issue expedited injunctions ordering platforms or other intermediaries to remove content, block access, or prevent reposting. Victims may join criminal proceedings as a civil party and seek monetary damages under general civil liability rules.
"Safety by Design" requirements
Online platforms are not required to incorporate “Safety by Design” into their systems.