YouTube Tests a New Age Verification System Based on Artificial Intelligence

• YouTube is testing a verification system for age using AI in the USA.
• Users are protesting the new system, which raises concerns about privacy.
• The petition against the age verification system has gathered nearly 50,000 signatures.

This is reported by ABC News, Ars Technica.

YouTube is starting to test a new age verification system in the USA, which uses artificial intelligence to identify users' ages. The system evaluates age based on the types of videos that users watch. The testing will involve only a small portion of the audience in the USA, but it may expand if the system proves effective.

Users who are identified as younger than 18 will receive restrictions that already exist on the platform for protecting minors from inappropriate content. This includes restrictions on advertising and video recommendations, as well as reminders about breaks.

Users who are incorrectly identified as minors can correct this mistake by providing documents, such as personal identification or a credit card. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of YouTube users have spoken out against this system, citing their privacy concerns.

The petition on Change.org, which calls to stop the implementation of age verification, has gathered nearly 50,000 signatures. Users express concerns that the new system could threaten their anonymity and the security of personal data. Experts in privacy also point out that such systems can be unreliable, and data can be vulnerable to leaks.

Critics of the system believe that verifying age through watched videos is unreliable, as many adults also watch content intended for children. They urge YouTube to maintain the previous age verification system and continue working with YouTube Kids to protect children.

Tags: USA/Technology/AI