BRUSSELS AGE CHECK APP CRACKED IN 2 MINUTES

The app, intended to verify user age for restricted content access, fell to basic security testing almost immediately. Hackers demonstrated that the verification mechanism lacked proper cryptographic protections and relied on easily manipulated client-side validation. The vulnerability highlights a recurring problem in government tech projects: rushing deployment without adequate security review. The app was meant to address EU requirements for age verification across digital services, but the quick compromise suggests insufficient testing before launch. Security researchers on Hacker News noted that the flaw was elementary—the kind of vulnerability that should be caught during basic code review. The incident raises questions about the vetting process for applications handling sensitive user data. Brussels officials have not yet announced a timeline for fixes. The failure underscores broader challenges in implementing age verification systems that balance privacy, security, and usability across EU member states.