The move comes after a major public response to ettevaatust.ee, a privately run website compiling data on convicted pedophiles and violent offenders.

Pakosta previously criticized the site, noting that Estonia already maintains an official criminal records database — but inquiries cost money, require knowing the offender's personal ID code and alert people when they are searched.

At Thursday's government press conference, Pakosta confirmed that ID photos will be added for those convicted of serious crimes — meaning convictions on record for life.

"Then it's easy to see at a glance whether it's a lighter or harsher sentence, depending on whether their photo is included," she said.

The changes follow several recent cases, including the discovery that a convicted pedophile was working at a riding school in Tartu, and that another repeat offender was transporting children as a school bus driver in Rapla County.

Pakosta said new measures will automate background checks to prevent such lapses, which she noted could occur when employers fail to conduct the legally required checks.

"We're automating these checks," she said, adding that the change will provide an extra layer of protection for children.

The ministry will also review the current €4 fee charged for criminal records inquiries, though Pakosta noted people can already search records for free under the Child Protection Act.

She emphasized that Estonia already has the most transparent criminal records system in the EU.

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