tech
January 21, 2026
ChatGPT is using age prediction to restrict what minors see
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TL;DR
- ChatGPT's age prediction model analyzes behavioral and account-level signals to estimate user age.
- Users predicted to be under 18 will face restrictions on sensitive content, including graphic violence, risky challenges, sexual or violent roleplay, self-harm depictions, and content promoting extreme beauty standards or unhealthy dieting.
- Adult users incorrectly placed in the under-18 experience can verify their age with a selfie to restore unrestricted access.
- These features are rolling out globally, with an exception for the EU due to regional requirements.
- The safeguards follow a teen suicide lawsuit and discussions about potential harm to minors from chatbots.