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Instagram on Tuesday announced it has expanded its age verification process in India to protect younger users better.
"If these people choose not to provide their date of birth, they won't be able to enter their public account again until they turn 18,"
it said. To reinstate access, users must share a government ID proving that they are above the legal age.
The social media giant will also disable public search for accounts belonging to those who are yet to verify their date of birth.
Instagram said the move is part of the company’s effort to keep “highly sensitive data” safe from misuse and abuse by third parties, including advertisers and governments.
If they choose not to provide their date of birth, they won't be able to enter their public account again until they turn 18 (or some other form of identification). The company said it was "committed" to working with governments worldwide on ways of making sure people aren't using its platform inappropriately or illegally."
To reinstate access, users must share a government ID proving that they are above the legal age.
The social media platform has also clarified that
“users who were already verified as adults before this change will maintain their verification status as long as they continue to use Instagram in India”.
Users can verify their identity by uploading one of these official documents: A passport, Driving License, or other official documents; a Birth certificate; Digital ID (UID); and Aadhaar Card (Aadhaar Number).
Conclusion
Instagram has made it easier for people to keep their accounts safe by introducing a new age verification system in India. The app now asks users to provide their date of birth and other details before they can access the social network. Still, if you're younger than 18 years old, then your account will never be able to be reinstated unless you share a government ID proving that you are above this legal age limit.
