Online age verification systems are failing to act as a barrier for children. According to a survey by the UK non-profit Internet Matters, half of children stated that bypassing age restrictions is very easy. One of the most curious methods involves drawing a fake mustache on the face with a cosmetic pencil. This trick confuses AI-based verification tools, causing them to mistake a child for an adult. This is reported by Techcrunch.com reports .
Age verification laws are being introduced worldwide. Often, this process requires users to upload copies of their driver's license or passport to third-party companies. Critics argue that such databases are vulnerable to hacking attacks and threaten internet freedom.
Tech giants like Apple have introduced updates to their devices to comply with regulations. Platforms like Reddit and Meta are using methods such as requiring documents or using algorithms to estimate a user's age. Other services like Discord have been forced to delay this process due to user backlash and security concerns.
Children have found other ways to trick age verification systems. For example, pointing a webcam at adult characters in video games or making strange facial expressions are being used to deceive the system. This calls into question the effectiveness of the technological protection tools currently being implemented.
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