UK Lawmakers May Seek Age-Verification Controls from Google and Apple

UK government lawmakers are reportedly considering reaching out to Google and Apple to explore mechanisms that would prevent device users from taking or viewing nude images without verifying their ages, according to a report by the Financial Times on Monday.

This development comes shortly after Australia implemented a social media ban to prevent children under 16 from accessing platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and X. While the UK government has not officially confirmed the discussions, the move is seen as a potential extension of existing online safety regulations.

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Background

Under UK law, websites and apps hosting pornographic content must implement robust age verification measures. Ofcom, the communications regulator, has emphasized that “just ticking a box to say you’re over 18 will no longer be enough,” highlighting the need for more secure age-check systems.

The proposed measures are expected to complement the Online Safety Act, which sets obligations for digital platforms to protect minors from harmful content online.

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Industry Response

Neither Apple nor Google has formally confirmed discussions with UK authorities, and it remains unclear what technical solutions may be considered. Experts suggest that any implementation could involve device-level age verification or stricter app store policies to enforce compliance.