Spotify to Enforce Strict Age Verification Measures in the UK

The implementation of the Online Safety Act in the UK means any online services in the territory that host materials deemed harmful to minors must instigate robust age checks – Spotify included.

Why it matters:

• The Online Safety Act extends beyond adult websites to incorporate social media platforms, forums and music streaming services.

• Platforms must use age verification methods such as facial verification, digital ID uploads, bank or credit card checks, and mobile network verification.

• As per Digital Music News, Spotify has complied with the new legislation and requires age verification before UK users can access certain content, such as music videos rated 18+.

• The company has partnered with UK-based digital identification firm Yoti to facilitate the age checks and ensure 18+ content isn’t accessed by minors.

• Spotify’s policy now reads: “You cannot use Spotify if you don’t meet the minimum age requirements for the market you’re in. If you cannot confirm you’re old enough to use Spotify, your account will be deactivated and eventually deleted.”