YouTube uses AI to detect children pretending to be adults

YouTube has started using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify child users pretending to be adults, as it steps up protections for minors from sensitive content.

YouTube, one of the most visited websites in the world - Photo: REUTERS

According to Japan Today , YouTube will deploy AI technology in the US to determine when users are children but declare their age as adults.

According to YouTube, the AI system can estimate age based on user behavior, including the type of videos watched and how long the account has been active. If it detects an account that is likely to be a child, the platform will ask for verification using a credit card, selfie, or ID.

James Beser, director of product management for YouTube Youth, said the technology allows users to determine their actual age, rather than just their reported birth date, and then apply appropriate experiences and protections.

“We have applied this approach in a number of other markets over the past period and it has worked quite well,” he said, adding that the new model would complement existing technology.

The move comes amid growing pressure to protect minors from harmful content, forcing social media platforms to step up their protections. Instagram and TikTok are also under scrutiny.

Many countries, especially Australia, have tightened regulations on social media. Last month, Australian Communications Minister Anika Wells announced that the country would implement a new law, banning children under 16 from using YouTube from December 10.

She said 40% of Australian children had seen harmful content on the platform and warned that “predatory algorithms” were threatening young users.

In 2024, Australia also announced plans to ban children under 16 from using Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

In response to Australia's move, YouTube said: "YouTube is a video-sharing platform with a library of free, high-quality content, increasingly viewed on TV screens. It is not a social network."

Australia's bill has been closely watched by many countries, with governments considering similar bans.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/youtube-dung-ai-de-phat-hien-tre-em-gia-mao-nguoi-lon-20250816134718388.htm