Age verification checks are now in force in the UK because of the Online Safety Act, but with the Discord fallout, it seems like one bad idea after another
PC Gamer
by Jess Kinghorn February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The UK's Online Safety Act has introduced mandatory age verification checks on major online platforms, including gaming and social media sites like Discord, Reddit, and Xbox. These measures aim to restrict access to harmful content for minors but have sparked frustration among users due to invasive verification processes, such as ID scans or facial recognition. Platforms like Discord are now requiring users to submit sensitive personal data through third-party vendors, raising concerns about privacy and data security following recent high-profile breaches. While many agree with the goal of protecting children online, critics argue that these methods are ineffective and intrusive, potentially undermining trust in digital platforms.
The Online Safety Act was designed to prevent minors from accessing harmful content, including pornography, self-harm promotion, bullying, and other sensitive material. However, its implementation has led to widespread inconvenience for users. For instance, the author highlights their personal experience with Bluesky, a platform requiring ID verification through KWS Solutions, an external vendor. This process raises ethical questions about data privacy, as handing over personal information increases the risk of leaks or misuse, especially after past incidents like Discord's 2023 security breach, which exposed age-verification ID photos.
The gaming community has been particularly affected by these changes. Platforms like Discord and Xbox now require users to undergo facial scans or submit IDs to access certain features. While some argue that these measures are necessary to comply with the law and protect young users, others question their effectiveness and potential long-term consequences for online privacy. The act also sets a precedent for stricter global regulations, as other countries may adopt similar approaches to online safety.
For gaming enthusiasts, this shift means frequent interruptions during gameplay or social interactions to verify age. Some platforms have even blocked British users from accessing certain features until they complete the verification process. This creates barriers to entry and frustrates users who feel their data is being mishandled. The author expresses skepticism about the benefits of these checks, pointing out that many people can bypass restrictions using VPNs or
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/22/2026