TikTok has announced that it will roll out stronger age-verification technology across the European Union in the coming weeks. This move comes as many countries discuss stricter rules on children using social media, including bans for users under 16.
The new system has already been quietly tested in the EU over the past year. It uses signals like profile details, posted videos, and user behaviour to predict whether an account may belong to someone under 13, which is TikTok’s minimum age requirement.
If an account is flagged, it will not be automatically removed. Instead, it will be reviewed by trained human moderators. If the account is taken down by mistake, users will be able to appeal the decision.
During the appeal, users can confirm their age using:
- Facial age estimation by Yoti
- Credit card verification
- Government-approved ID
TikTok says this system follows EU data protection and privacy laws and is only used to improve safety and accuracy. The company added that the pilot programme has already led to the removal of thousands of underage accounts.
TikTok also highlighted other safety steps, such as:
- No direct messages for users under 16
- A 60-minute screen-time limit for users under 18
- No late-night notifications for teens
The announcement comes as pressure grows worldwide. Australia has already banned social media for under-16s, removing millions of accounts. In the UK and EU, leaders are also debating similar restrictions.
TikTok says it takes child safety seriously and is working closely with EU regulators to ensure compliance and protect young users online.
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