Hey TikTok users, especially parents and guardians! Get ready for a significant update aimed at making the platform safer for everyone, particularly our younger users. TikTok is rolling out a brand new age-detection system across Europe in the coming weeks.
This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a major step for TikTok as it faces increasing pressure from regulators to better identify and remove accounts belonging to children under 13. European authorities are serious about how platforms verify user ages, concerned that current methods aren’t always effective or private enough. Other countries are also taking action, with Australia imposing a social media ban for under-16s, and Denmark considering a similar ban for under-15s.
So, how will it work? This clever new system, developed after a year-long pilot, uses advanced technology to analyze profile information, uploaded videos, and even how an account behaves. Its goal is to predict if a user might be underage. Don’t worry, it’s not an instant ban hammer! Accounts flagged by the technology will be reviewed by specialist human moderators. This ensures a careful and fair process.
TikTok acknowledges the global challenge of confirming age while protecting privacy. For those who need to appeal a decision, the platform will use secure methods like facial-age estimation from a verification provider called Yoti, credit card checks, or government-issued identification. (Even Meta uses Yoti for age verification on Facebook!)
Built specifically to meet Europe’s strict data protection rules, this new system highlights TikTok’s commitment to compliance and creating a more secure online environment for its youngest users. European users will be notified as this important technology launches. It’s all about balancing safety with privacy, ensuring TikTok remains a fun and age-appropriate space for all.
