The UK’s new Online Safety Act (OSA) just went live, and its ripple effects are already global.
It mandates that websites and apps verify the ages of their users — not just on adult sites, but across platforms that cover more than 200 content categories, from dating apps to private messaging services.
Now the U.S. is reviving its own version, the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which may pass into law soon.
But here’s what no one wants to admit:
These age verification laws are dangerously flawed.
And if you’re a developer, product lead, or platform owner, your current system might be putting your users — and your business — at risk.
What Went Wrong with OSA and KOSA?
The goal — to keep minors away from age-inappropriate content — is noble.
The execution? A privacy disaster.
Here’s why:
- ❌ Massive overreach: These laws now apply to more than just porn or adult content.
- ❌ No tech standard: Websites are left to figure out how to verify age, with no clear rules.
- ❌ Data privacy ignored: Many are resorting to invasive ID uploads, which are unregulated and easily breached.
- ❌ Encrypted messaging under attack: Laws are now reaching into private platforms like iMessage and FaceTime.
- ❌ Easy to bypass with a VPN: So even the “protection” they promise isn’t foolproof.
Just days into rollout, we’re seeing a surge in VPN use and major blowback from privacy advocates. The entire system is broken — and users know it.
Developers: You Do Have a Better Option
You don’t need to choose between compliance and user privacy.
Changefly ID is a cryptographically secure, privacy-first solution that verifies age without collecting or storing any personal information.
It’s built for platforms with adult or age-restricted content — and it works without slowing down users or asking them for sensitive data.
What Makes Changefly Different?
- ✅ Anonymous 18+ verification — no ID or birthdate required
- ✅ Time-limited identity token unique to each session
- ✅ No stored personal data — ever
- ✅ Fully compliant with GDPR, CCPA, PIPEDA, HIPAA
- ✅ Developer-friendly API — go live in minutes
This is how age verification should work in 2025.
Let Me Show You in 15 Minutes
I work directly with the Changefly team to help developers and platform owners implement seamless, privacy-first verification that’s built for compliance without the chaos.
If you manage a platform that includes age-restricted content, don’t wait for a breach, a fine, or a user revolt.
📅 Book a quick 15-minute call and see how Changefly works:
👉 https://bit.ly/changeflycalendar
Will Walker
Changefly | Privacy + Identity Solutions
📞 +1-212-390-1198
📧 Will@Changefly.com
📅 https://bit.ly/changeflycalendar
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