By Meta-owned Instagram has announced that it is testing new methods for users to verify their age on the platform. These measures include uploading identification documents such as a driver’s license or ID card, among other options, to ensure age-appropriate experiences for users.
Age Verification Process
In this new initiative, starting with users in the United States, Instagram will prompt individuals attempting to change their date of birth from under 18 to 18 or older to verify their age. Users can verify their age by uploading their ID, recording a video selfie, or asking mutual friends to vouch for them. The person vouching must be at least 18 years old and cannot vouch for anyone else at the same time.
Partnership with Yoti
Instagram has partnered with Yoti, a company specializing in online age verification, to ensure the privacy of users during the verification process. According to Instagram, users’ IDs will be securely stored on their servers and deleted within 30 days to protect their privacy.
Video Selfie Option
Alternatively, users can choose to verify their age by uploading a video selfie. Instagram emphasizes that only the age is recognized in the video selfie, not the user’s identity. After taking a video selfie, Instagram shares the image with Yoti for age verification purposes only.
Privacy Measures
For users who opt to upload a video selfie or ID for age verification, Instagram reassures that the information is encrypted and stored securely. Once the age is confirmed, the video or ID is deleted, and the data is not used for any other purpose.
Teenage User Experience
Instagram highlights its commitment to providing age-appropriate experiences for teenagers aged 13 to 17. These experiences include defaulting teenagers into private accounts, limiting contact with unknown adults, and restricting advertisers’ options to reach them with ads.
As Instagram continues to prioritize user safety and privacy, these new age verification measures aim to enhance the platform’s ability to create a safer online environment for users of all ages.
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