Meta is preparing to expand its video selfie verification tool as governments increase pressure on platforms to restrict access based on user age. This step follows recent updates to Facebook’s support page, where the platform now states that people trying to access age-limited features may be asked to prove their age.
Meta has worked with an age verification provider called Yoti in earlier trials. Video selfies were already available in some regions, but the company is now taking steps to expand the process across more countries. This aligns with new legal requirements focused on content access controls.
Meta issued a public statement supporting a shared approach to age rules across the European Union. The proposal would introduce a common threshold, likely starting at age 15, with the possibility of raising it to 16 depending on further review.
If the process proves accurate, more countries could require similar checks. Larger companies may be able to handle these systems more easily. Smaller platforms or those without similar infrastructure could face challenges. Enforcement may include penalties for non-compliance.
Meta’s approach shows a shift toward stricter age controls as part of global platform policy changes. The tools being tested may become part of a wider standard that applies across regions.
While adding age verification tools like video selfies may help social platforms comply with child safety regulations, relying on AI for this process has raised concerns. Some users have expressed discomfort and distrust toward Meta’s video selfie system, citing issues ranging from lack of camera access to privacy fears. Comments on a Digital Information World blog post reflect frustration from users who feel excluded due to disability, illness, or personal beliefs. Several users reported quitting the platform entirely after being asked for a video selfie, describing the requirement as intrusive, discriminatory, or technically unfeasible.
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Verification Using ID or Selfie
Anyone who appears underage and tries to access content for adults could be prompted to submit additional information. Facebook offers two options: upload a government-issued ID or take a video selfie. The image from the selfie is sent to an external company that estimates the user’s age. This estimate is used to confirm eligibility and does not involve personal identification.Meta has worked with an age verification provider called Yoti in earlier trials. Video selfies were already available in some regions, but the company is now taking steps to expand the process across more countries. This aligns with new legal requirements focused on content access controls.
Regulations in Multiple Countries
In the United Kingdom, a new safety law requires platforms to stop children from viewing inappropriate material. Other countries are moving in the same direction. Australia is close to approving similar rules. France, Denmark, and Greece are backing stronger enforcement policies that raise the minimum digital access age.Meta issued a public statement supporting a shared approach to age rules across the European Union. The proposal would introduce a common threshold, likely starting at age 15, with the possibility of raising it to 16 depending on further review.
Broader Impact on Platforms
The changes may reduce the number of underage users who can interact with adult content. Meta appears to be preparing systems that meet this expectation. By using verified images and external checks, the company is signaling that it is building tools for compliance.If the process proves accurate, more countries could require similar checks. Larger companies may be able to handle these systems more easily. Smaller platforms or those without similar infrastructure could face challenges. Enforcement may include penalties for non-compliance.
Meta’s approach shows a shift toward stricter age controls as part of global platform policy changes. The tools being tested may become part of a wider standard that applies across regions.
While adding age verification tools like video selfies may help social platforms comply with child safety regulations, relying on AI for this process has raised concerns. Some users have expressed discomfort and distrust toward Meta’s video selfie system, citing issues ranging from lack of camera access to privacy fears. Comments on a Digital Information World blog post reflect frustration from users who feel excluded due to disability, illness, or personal beliefs. Several users reported quitting the platform entirely after being asked for a video selfie, describing the requirement as intrusive, discriminatory, or technically unfeasible.
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