Reddit Launches New Age Checking Requirements in the UK

07/15/25
Source: Social Media Today – Latest News by Andrew Hutchinson. Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Reddit Implements Age Verification for UK Users Under New Online Safety Act

Reddit is introducing age verification in the U.K. to comply with the new Online Safety Act, using a third-party service called Persona. This process protects user privacy by only storing verification status and birthdate, without retaining photos or Reddit activity. The move aims to restrict minors from accessing age-inappropriate content and may expand globally as similar laws emerge.

Optimixed’s Overview: How Reddit’s New Age Verification Enhances User Safety and Compliance

Background and Regulatory Context

Reddit is adapting to evolving digital safety laws in the U.K. by implementing mandatory age verification before allowing access to restricted subreddits. The Online Safety Act mandates platforms to prevent minors from viewing unsuitable content, prompting Reddit’s proactive approach.

Verification Process and Privacy Measures

  • Reddit partners with Persona, a trusted third-party, to verify ages through selfies or government ID photos.
  • Photos are not stored by Reddit and are retained by Persona for a maximum of 7 days only.
  • Reddit stores only the user’s birthdate and verification status to avoid repeated checks.
  • User birthdates remain private and are not shared with advertisers or other users.

Broader Implications and Future Prospects

This initiative not only aligns Reddit with U.K. law but also anticipates similar regulations worldwide. Reddit’s choice of video-based age verification reflects a balance between accuracy and user privacy. While some users may resist this change, it represents a shift towards safer, more regulated online communities. Additionally, Reddit is exploring advanced technologies like eye-scanning for identity verification in the future, signaling ongoing innovation in platform safety.