By YouTube has started using artificial intelligence (AI) to estimate users’ ages to help keep minors away from unsuitable content.
The new system, rolled out this week in the US, looks at how users watch and search on the platform to figure out if they are under 18. This goes beyond just trusting the birthdate people give during sign-up, which can be easily faked.
If the AI decides someone is a teen, YouTube automatically applies safety measures like limiting violent or sexually suggestive videos, adjusting recommendations, and turning off targeted ads. But if an adult is misidentified as a minor, they must prove their age by submitting an official ID, credit card, or a selfie before regaining full access.
YouTube says this AI tool has worked well in other countries and is part of a wider effort by social media platforms to protect young users. Facebook’s parent company Meta and TikTok also use similar technology to verify ages and enforce safety rules.
However, some users worry about privacy and the hassle of providing sensitive documents to prove their age if the AI makes a mistake. Privacy experts have raised concerns about how this data will be handled.
YouTube told CNN that Google, its parent company, uses strong security to protect users’ personal information and does not keep submitted IDs or credit cards for advertising.
While this AI system only works for logged-in users, meaning kids could still access some content without an account, age-restricted videos remain off-limits to signed-out visitors.
This new approach restates YouTube’s efforts to creating a safer space for young people on the platform.
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