Twitch launches age verification requiring users to scan their face

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Twitch is now using a new system to verify users’ ages. It requires people to scan their faces as part of the process, with the goal of creating a safer online community.

Starting September 15th, new Twitch users will be required to verify their age by scanning their faces using age estimation technology to ensure they comply with local laws.

Amazon’s platform doesn’t allow children under 13 to create accounts, and that policy remains the same. However, users will now have to complete an additional step each time they log in to view content.

This won’t affect everyone, but people in the UK should know that facial scanning may be required.

Why is Twitch adding age verification scans?

The UK has started requiring people to verify their age before accessing adult content online. This is now done using facial scans, but the system has received criticism because it’s difficult to use and raises concerns about privacy.

The reaction from people in the UK to this change has been varied, but many are annoyed by having to use face ID every time they visit websites with age restrictions.

When you log in to Twitch, you’ll now see a screen asking you to verify your age. This requires you to briefly remove any glasses or headwear so the system can scan your face. This verification is needed to access the site and view content that may be intended for mature audiences, like certain games.

As a Twitch user, I was really glad to read that my privacy is being taken seriously! Apparently, when you use the facial age verification, Twitch and their partner k-ID don’t actually *store* the video selfie you take. It’s all analyzed right on my device, so the video never leaves my computer or phone. And they’ve said the information is only used to confirm my age – that’s it, which is reassuring.

Many Twitch viewers are unhappy with the recent change, and one person even joked that it wasn’t at all concerning or oppressive.

Someone else mentioned they don’t rely on Twitch very much and might be leaving the platform.

Despite the age verification system, people have discovered loopholes. As a form of protest, some users successfully bypassed the facial recognition by using a picture of Norman Reedus’ face from the game Death Stranding.

Unfortunately, some people have faced problems even when clearly showing their faces. A notable example is the British man known as the “most tattooed man,” who was blocked from accessing websites because the technology mistakenly identified his tattoos as a mask.

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2025-09-16 18:19