Social Media Giants Embrace Id Checks – A New Era For Under-16S on OnlyLikeFans

Social Media's New Move: The ID Check Era

Major social media names, including Meta, TikTok, Google, and Snapchat, have started using government-issued IDs to verify users' ages. This move comes in anticipation of a ban on under-16s, and it occurs despite earlier promises from the Australian government that such measures wouldn't be necessary.

Inventor Ric Richardson supports this step, stressing the need to shield young users from adult content. "When you think about a kid being exposed to adult themes, adult content, you really understand it’s important to have that delay," he shared with Sky News.

Platforms and Promises: What's Really Happening?

Though Communications Minister Anika Wells reassured Australians that ID uploads wouldn't be mandatory, these tech giants have already adopted a variety of age-assurance techniques. These range from government ID uploads to biometric analysis and even credit-card verification. However, if these systems falter, users might still need to provide sensitive documentation.

A Meta spokesperson highlighted the limitations of age estimation technology, emphasizing the necessity of this ID approach at the tricky 16-age boundary. TikTok, on the other hand, is exploring multiple avenues for age assurance, offering alternatives like age estimation and credit-card checks.

“We use a multi-layered approach to age assurance that relies on various technologies and signals to confirm someone's age,” a TikTok spokesperson stated.

Concerns Leading to Compliance

As the December 2025 deadline approaches, the Albanese government's new regulations are setting the stage for significant changes. The rules come with hefty fines of $50 million for non-compliance, pressuring social media platforms to align with the government's expectations.

Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh expressed her concerns over data storage and privacy, warning of potential risks involved with digital IDs. "Meta and probably other platforms will be compelling Australians to use their digital ID if their age verification technology can’t establish an age," she pointed out.

Tension in Tech: Global Reactions

The shift toward ID verification has stirred up tension between tech firms and Australia's eSafety Commissioner, particularly after major platforms refused to endorse the "Safety by Design" initiative. Some companies have even contacted the United States government, seeking intervention against the Albanese administration's laws.

Despite these challenges, Communications Minister Anika Wells firmly denies any requirement for digital ID uploads, labeling opposing claims as unfounded fear-mongering. "It is enshrined in the Australian law that Parliament passed in a bipartisan manner at the end of last year that you will not be required to upload your digital ID," she affirmed.