Xbox gamers are infuriated by the new age verification checks that will soon be implemented, and I understand why.
Recently, the UK has been rolling out age verification checks for adult websites, because they are very easily accessible to underage children. A feature, in my opinion, that is long overdue.
However, those age verification checks have far exceeded the implementation of adult websites, with conversations taking place within the UK government over the use of VPNs.
As a VPN user for protecting my data when using public wi-fi, I can understand the frustration. The problem with me isn't so much having to verify who I am; it’s that I don’t trust who my private data will be handed to.
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Age verification checks will be implemented on Xbox at some point in 2026, so it’s probably only a matter of time until the likes of PlayStation and Nintendo follow suit.
Recently, I, like many other Xbox gamers, received the following message from Microsoft:
“As part of our compliance program for the UK Online Safety Act, adult Xbox accounts must verify their age to keep full access to social features like chat and invites.
“Starting early 2026, these features will be limited until you verify, though you'll still be able to access your account, purchases, games, and achievements.”
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Look, we all know that people can hide their identities on the internet, and it’s often a major concern for children and parents.
However, like many, I’ve had my Xbox account for decades, so much so that it exceeds the minimum adult age of an account, which is 18. By that fact alone, it should be quite obvious that I’m an adult.
Plus, I can’t say that I have much trust in governments and corporations, no matter if they tell us our data is safe and will not be used for marketing purposes.
“I’ve had this Xbox account for like.. 22 years and they’re saying I need to prove I’m over 18,” exclaimed Twitter user FlawlessC0wboy.
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“Perfect time to dump Xbox,” replied MillerTimeDog.
“I can understand it for accounts that haven't been active that long, but there should be no need for accounts that have been active that long. It's already proven that it’s an account holder above the age,” explained Drakaina Tohru.
“Same. But blame the government, not Xbox. It's a digital tick box exercise. Just do the photo ID, it takes 10 seconds,” said LifeinLincs with SuperNintention, adding, “Nope, not complying, I’d rather close my 25-year-old Microsoft account.”
“I reluctantly did mine today. Roll on the news feed where we're hearing of a MASSIVE data breach and the dark web is flooded with personal details...and trust me, it will happen,” warned SSladesy.
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Despite being enforced by the UK government, the age verification requirement is making its way to other regions, including North America.
Topics: Real Life, Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X