Snap to Roll Out Age Verification Tools in Australia as Under-16 Social Media Ban Nears

Snap is introducing new age-verification options for Australian users as the country prepares to enforce a landmark social media ban for children under 16. The regulation, considered one of the world’s toughest measures targeting major tech companies, will take effect on December 10.

To comply with the new law, Snap will begin contacting users this week, giving them the option to confirm they are 16 or older through ConnectID, a verification system owned by Australia’s major banks. By using ConnectID, users can authorize a simple “yes or no” age confirmation tied to their bank account details, without sharing sensitive personal data directly with Snapchat. According to ConnectID’s managing director, the aim is to protect minors while minimizing privacy risks.

Snap will also offer alternative verification methods through age-assurance provider k-ID, which can estimate a user’s age using a selfie or government-issued ID. This dual-option approach is designed to streamline compliance with Australia’s new rules while giving users flexibility in how they prove their age.

Australia’s government previously dismissed Snap’s argument that the platform functions primarily as a messaging service rather than social media. Despite expressing disagreement, Snap stated it would follow all local laws where it operates. With an estimated 440,000 Australian Snapchat users aged 13 to 15, the company is expected to be among the most significantly impacted by the regulation.

The broader tech industry had pushed back against the under-16 ban, which carries penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($31.95 million) for violations. However, as the enforcement date approaches, major platforms—including Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads—have begun taking steps to deactivate underage accounts and align with the new requirements.