UK proposes guidelines for AI face recognition to access adult content
The regulatory body explained its proposal for facial age estimation involves employing AI to analyse the features of a viewer.
Highlights
- New regulations demand robust age verification, tackling the issue of early exposure to explicit content among children
- Ofcom recommends varied verification methods, including facial checks and open banking, ensuring comprehensive child protection online
In a bid to shield children from unsuitable online content, Britain has unveiled fresh guidelines proposing innovative age-check mechanisms, including the use of AI technology to determine a viewer's eligibility to access explicit material.
Additionally, it's worth noting that Rockstar Games has also announced plans to incorporate facial recognition for in-game purchases in its highly anticipated release, GTA 6. The recently passed Online Safety Act in the UK mandates that platforms displaying or sharing pornographic content implement measures to prevent children from stumbling upon explicit material.
The legal age for consuming pornography in Britain is 18, with the government aiming to address the alarming trend of children encountering such content at an early age.
AI-based age estimation
One notable suggestion from the regulatory body, Ofcom, involves the utilisation of AI-based technology to analyse a viewer's facial features. This would entail users taking a selfie on their device for age verification purposes. The goal is to create a robust protective barrier against underage access to explicit content.
Alternative verification methods
Ofcom's proposed guidance includes multiple age verification methods. Photo identification matching, where users upload a photo ID like a passport or driving license, is among the recommendations.
Credit card checks and the concept of open banking, where users grant permission for their banks to share information with online adult content platforms for age confirmation, are also suggested.
Concerns from critics
While these proposals aim to bolster child protection online, critics, including the Institute of Economic Affairs, a free-market think tank, argue that mandatory age verification poses threats to user privacy.
They contend that it may expose users to potential breaches and abuse by increasing the volume of sensitive data held by third parties.
Stricter standards
Ofcom asserts that more lenient methods, such as self-declaration of age, online payment methods without age confirmation, and disclaimers, will no longer meet the standards outlined in the new guidance.
The regulator is steadfast in its commitment to balancing child protection with the preservation of adults' rights to access legal content while ensuring their privacy.
Looking ahead
Ofcom anticipates releasing its final guidance in early 2025, marking a significant step towards creating a safer online environment for children, while addressing concerns about user privacy and data protection.
