Instagram has launched technology to verify the age of users in the United Kingdom and Europe. Any user trying to change their date of birth from “under 18” to “over-18” must verify their age. But, the users now have the option to record a video of themselves, which will be analysed by the age-estimation technology, instead of uploading ID.
This new technology will help ensure user experiences on the platform are age appropriate, according to Instagram. In June 2022, Instagram also announced that it was exploring different ways for teenagers to verify their age, and comply with the rules of the platform.
According to Instagram, it already uses in-app reports and artificial intelligence to help determine whether users are under 18 years of age, and under 13, its minimum age. According to research commissioned by Ofcom, one in three children on Instagram lies about their age to access adult content.
Video age verification was an important step in delivering safe and better experiences for teenagers on Instagram, said Tara Hopkins, Instagram’s public policy director. Tara Hopkins added that they want everyone to experience Instagram in a way that is appropriate for their age, and this is a challenge across their industry.
