The assessment and ICO statement were published on 29 October. The sources describe the new age restrictions as proposed and future guidance as still being developed.
What happened
On 29 October, the ICO welcomed Ofcom's rapid assessment of age assurance at the 16-year threshold. The ICO emphasised that measures intended to protect children must also protect personal information and allow people to exercise their information rights. It is working with Ofcom and Government while new regulations are developed.
Sources: [1]
Keep the regulatory status clear
Ofcom produced its assessment to inform parliamentary debate on proposed restrictions for online services. It identified photo ID matching, banking information, digital identity services and facial age estimation as methods capable of being highly effective at 16. Ofcom says it is developing draft guidance and will consult following the laying of draft regulations.
Sources: [2]
Design the information flow carefully
The ICO's Children's code guidance says age assurance should collect only the information needed for an appropriate level of confidence. Collection, retention and security still require attention. Information obtained to establish age should not simply be reused for unrelated purposes.
Sources: [3]
Practical next step
Practical editorial analysis
Before selecting a supplier, map what information will be collected, where it will travel and when it will be deleted. Record why the proposed method is proportionate to the service's risks, and ask the supplier to explain retention and access controls.
Sources: [3]
Verify the sources
Read the original official material for its full scope, wording and current status.
- ICO — Statement on highly effective age assuranceSource published · Checked
- Ofcom — Assessment of highly effective age assurance at 16Source published · Checked
- ICO — Children's code: age-appropriate applicationPublication date not recorded · Checked
This article is general information. It is an AI-assisted summary of the sources above. Use the linked official material to verify each development. Check current source material and obtain appropriate advice for your circumstances.