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UK data watchdog urges social media platforms to act now on age checks
The UK Information Commissioner's Office welcomed a rapid Ofcom review of age checks at the 16 threshold and a related app store report. Its children's strategy director, Katie Searle, said age checks must protect children without exposing their personal data. The watchdog urged social media and video-sharing platforms to act now, since they should already block users under their minimum age, usually 13.
What does it mean?
Social media and video apps should already be stopping children under their minimum age, usually 13, from signing up. The watchdog says those checks must also keep children's personal data safe.
Who is affected?
Children under the minimum age on social media and video-sharing platforms, and the platforms themselves.