WhatsApp Tests Age Verification; Some Users Report Accounts Under Review
Meta-owned WhatsApp is testing privacy-protective ways to verify users’ age ahead of the rollout of India’s Digital Personal Data Protection…
WhatsApp is testing privacy-protective methods to verify users' age ahead of India's Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, set to be implemented in May. A spokesperson for WhatsApp stated that they are seeking ways to confirm users' ages while adhering to upcoming Indian regulations. Earlier, some users reported receiving prompts to add their date of birth to their WhatsApp profiles, but the company clarified that this was only a limited test and that providing the information is optional.
The DPDP Act does not mandate age verification, but platforms must obtain parental or guardian consent for children's personal data and ensure the age and authority of those providing consent. Several users also reported that their accounts were placed under review without prior notice, disrupting their work. WhatsApp acknowledged the issue but did not specify what triggered the reviews.
Meta is facing increased regulatory scrutiny in India over its content moderation policies, as several of its employees have come under fire for objectionable content circulated on their platforms.
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