TikTok to deploy age-detection system across Europe

TikTok will roll out an age-detection system across Europe to identify underage users on the platform, according to a Reuters report cited by Mashable.

The system analyzes a user's profile information, published videos and behavioral signs to estimate whether an account holder is under 13. Per TikTok policy, users must be at least 13 to sign up. Accounts flagged by the system will be reviewed by specialist moderators and will not be banned automatically.

The move comes as EU regulators press social platforms to act on child safety and verify minimum ages. The European Parliament is reportedly considering a social media ban for children under 15 similar to measures adopted in Australia, and gaming platforms such as Roblox have used facial recognition to limit interactions between children and adults.

TikTok told Reuters the system will be rolled out across Europe in the coming weeks after a year of testing in Britain. Mashable noted the method is likely to produce some false positives, and it remains to be seen how accurate the system will be and how many users it may affect.

Key Topics

Tech, Tiktok, European Parliament, Britain, Roblox, Age Verification