YouTube is bringing an AI-powered age estimation system to the United States starting August 13, and even adults might have to verify their age by uploading a picture of their government ID or other sensitive information.
The move from YouTube is another effort to restrict certain content from users the company may flag as under 18, according to a recent public statement, regardless of what age is initially listed on their Google account to register on the site.
The age verification system for YouTube has already been used in other countries, but its U.S. debut is a sign of a major step in the platform’s push for stricter child safety standards.
The AI model makes its guess on a user’s age based on a range of factors, including the listed birthdate of the user’s account, the types of videos they’ve watched, and their activity across the site. According to the company, if it suspects a user is a minor, it will automatically apply limitations, restricting access to certain content, reducing personalized ads, and enabling “digital well-being” tools intended for teenagers.
For users flagged incorrectly, YouTube has reportedly said there will be an option to verify age through a government-issued ID, a selfie, or a credit card.
That hurdle may be raising privacy concerns among users who feel uncomfortable handing over sensitive documents to access everyday content, which didn’t require screening to view previously.
This change from YouTube follows ongoing controversy in the UK, where users already have to prove their age to view certain content. Although more than 350,000 people have signed a petition calling for the repeal of the Online Safety Act overseas, the Labor government has publicly stated it has “no plans” to reverse the legislation, per PCGamer.