ATHENS – [ANA-MPA]
Measures such as the ‘Kids Wallet’ for age verification, the upcoming launches of Greek nanosatellites, the role of Daedalus and Pharos for Greece’s AI strategy, the environmental concerns raised by data centers and the use of digital wallets on a national and European level were among the topics addressed in the interview that Digital Governance and AI Minister Dimitris Papastergiou granted to the ANA-MPA, published on Sunday.
Papastergiou particularly emphasised the use of the Kids Wallet in verifying age, using the Zero-Knowledge Proof technique, to prevent the sale of tobacco and alcohol to minors. He noted that the digital governance ministry had – for the first time in Europe and in Greece – implemented a digital age verification framework that sought to substantially protect minors and upgrade public health. He noted that the specific app will alert retailers, with a simple yes or no, of the age limit and will also require those who sell alcoholic drinks and tobacco products to join a special registry, with penalties that aim to eradicate fake digital IDs and violations. He also indicated that the government was examining extending the measure to betting companies.
The minister said that a new round of nanosatellite launches will take place at the end of March and in April, including some with thermal radar to detect wildfires, and conclude in the summer with optical satellites. At the same time, he emphasised investment in ground-based optical terminals and participation in European programs to ensure technological autonomy and secure satellite communications.
In the field of artificial intelligence, the new national supercomputer “Daedalus” located in Lavrio was presented as the “locomotive” that will bring powerful computing resources in Greece. This will be combined with a new open data platform, enabling universities, research centers, and startups to develop products without external dependencies. As for digital wallets, he noted that Gov.gr Wallet will align with the European technical approach of the European Digital Wallet, with full adaptation expected by the end of 2026.
Papastergiou also referred to legislative and technical initiatives to tackle disinformation and fake videos/images, measures against misleading SMS and spoofing in cooperation with providers, as well as the expansion of road network monitoring systems aimed at improving safety and driving behavior.
