A growing trend of online safety laws worldwide is forcing internet users to provide their government-issued IDs for verification on social media platforms and other websites. The Google-owned platform YouTube has recently rolled out ID verification, barbing some US users from the site starting Wednesday.
The UK’s Online Safety Act, passed in July 2025, aims to make services safer for minors by requiring social media companies to identify themselves through ID before viewing explicit material. Similar laws are being introduced or passed in other countries, including Australia and the United States, where nearly half a million people signed a petition to repeal the proposed SCREEN Act and Kids Online Safety Act.
YouTube plans to use AI-powered technology to distinguish between minors and adults based on user actions, such as video searches, watched categories, and account longevity. Users found to be under 18 will receive age-appropriate protection, while those falsely identified may need to verify their ID through a third-party company.
Critics argue that the increased verification requirements pose a risk of data breaches, identity theft, and loss of credit. A recent incident on the Tea App, which asked users to upload selfies and IDs for verification, led to thousands of women’s sensitive information being leaked online.
As lawmakers continue to debate these laws, concerns over privacy and access to information persist. While child safety is a primary concern, some fear that new regulations could lead to unnecessary restrictions on those who value their anonymity online.
Source: https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/youtube-others-may-ask-your-id-online-safety-laws-sprout-across-globe