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ChatGPT Now Uses Age Prediction to Limit Minors' Access

AI ChatGPT OpenAI Age Prediction Online Safety Minors Content Restrictions
January 21, 2026
Viqus Verdict Logo Viqus Verdict Logo 8
Controlled Rollout, Significant Implications
Media Hype 7/10
Real Impact 8/10

Article Summary

OpenAI is implementing age prediction capabilities within ChatGPT, a move designed to safeguard minors from potentially harmful content. The system analyzes user behavior, account details, activity patterns, and stated age to identify individuals estimated to be under 18. Once identified, these users experience restrictions on content access, specifically targeting graphic violence, risky challenges, sexual roleplay, self-harm depictions, and content promoting unrealistic beauty standards. A key feature allows adults incorrectly categorized as minors to verify their age through a selfie, restoring unrestricted access. This development follows a lawsuit involving a teen suicide and ongoing Congressional discussions regarding the potential dangers of chatbots to young people. This proactive measure underscores growing concerns surrounding AI's impact on vulnerable populations and reinforces the need for robust safety protocols in generative AI applications.

Key Points

  • ChatGPT is utilizing age prediction technology for content restriction.
  • The system analyzes various user signals to identify and protect underage users.
  • Adult users incorrectly flagged can verify their age to regain unrestricted access.

Why It Matters

This news is critically important for professionals in AI development, legal tech, and child safety. The deployment of age prediction within a widely used AI model highlights the increasing pressure on tech companies to mitigate potential harms associated with generative AI, particularly concerning minors. It raises serious questions about data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the responsibility of AI developers to safeguard vulnerable users. The ongoing legal and regulatory discussions surrounding chatbots further emphasize the need for proactive measures and responsible development practices.

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