Research on Legal Issues of Adolescent Data Security from the Perspective of Global Data Security Law

Abstract

Adolescents, as active participants in the digital era, face increasing risks to data security, including online education breaches, social media misuse, and unlawful data collection. This paper defines adolescent data (ages 12–18) and underscores its importance for individual growth and social stability. Through literature review, case analysis, and comparative study of the EU’s GDPR, the U.S. COPPA, and laws in Japan and South Korea, it finds shared principles of necessity, security, and consent, yet divergent approaches in regulation, penalties, and scope. While China’s Law on the Protection of Minors and related statutes provide a foundation, problems remain: vague definitions, weak regulatory mechanisms, and limited industry self-regulation. To address these, the paper proposes clarifying definitions and rights, strengthening sanctions, improving regulatory coordination with advanced technologies, and enhancing self-discipline and public awareness. These measures aim to refine China’s legal framework and better protect adolescent data security in line with global best practices.