What does FSK mean? Clearly explained

In this article we show you what FSK means. The so-called "voluntary self-control of the film industry" is an organization for the age approval of films and series and shows for which age group the respective film or series is suitable.

FSK - what does that mean?

The FSK is the abbreviation for "voluntary self-regulation of the film industry". This means that the FSK draws up a guideline for age approval and thus decides for which age groups films and series are suitable. This is based on the Youth Protection Act and the principles of the FSK.

• There are five different classifications at the FSK. These indicate the age group for which the medium is approved. The ratings range from 0 to 18 in the following intervals: FSK released from 0, FSK released from 6, FSK released from 12, FSK released from 16, FSK released from 18. FSK from 18 is also called "No release for young people", because these media are then only suitable for adults.
• The FSK is binding in public film screenings, such as cinemas. This means that all content such as trailers, supporting films and the main film must be approved for the age group of the visitor. Otherwise admission will be denied. There is an exception for films that are released from the age of 12. Children from the age of six accompanied by their parents can still watch the films here.
• The FSK was founded by the film industry and still works independently of it. The examiners must not work in the film industry and must have experience with children and young people. They are appointed for a period of three years and work on a voluntary basis.

Interesting facts about the FSK

There are other regulations regarding the FSK that apply in special cases. For example, it is no longer possible to index FSK 18 films. There are also differences from the USK and FSF.

• The USK is the equivalent of the FSK for computer games. USK stands for "entertainment software self-control". Here, computer games are checked for content that is harmful to young people and classified accordingly. The USK is also responsible for computer game trailers.
• The FSF is exactly the same, only for television. Here, content that is produced for television is checked and marked accordingly.
• FSK 18 films can no longer be indexed (prohibited). Since the content has already been classified, subsequent changes are no longer possible. In rare cases, changes to the FSK classification can still be made by an examination board.

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In our next article, see how you can confirm your age on Amazon Prime Instant Video.