What is Yoti age verification? Is it safe?

What is Yoti age verification? Yoti uses AI verification and document uploads to verify your age. Discover how Yoti age verification works and whether Yoti is safe in this guide.

Age verification rules in the UK (Online Safety Act), France, Germany, and several US states now require adults to verify their age before accessing certain adult content and services. These rules force websites like Pornhub and OnlyFans to check that users are over 18 before granting access.

Yoti age verification allows users to confirm their age by uploading an ID or using AI-based facial age estimation. Yoti is a legitimate company with genuine accreditations, which makes it one of the safer age verification providers available. However, it is still worth reading this guide to understand the nuances and privacy implications involved in using any age verification provider.

What is age verification?

Age-verification regulations require adults to confirm their age before accessing adult content online. These rules are being introduced and enforced in a growing number of countries to help protect children. With age checks in place, it becomes much harder for minors to stumble across unsuitable content.

Age verification services are third-party providers that work with adult websites to confirm whether users are over 18. These services use a variety of methods to perform age checks. This may include AI facial age estimation (facial analysis from a selfie) or secure identification checks that require users to upload a scanned identity document, such as a passport or driver’s license.

What is Yoti age verification, and where is it available?

Yoti is a service provider that works alongside various popular websites, including Instagram, Facebook Dating, Yubo, Spotify, and OnlyFans. It provides age checks whenever a service needs to wall off age-restricted content.

Yoti’s age verification systems allow websites to enforce age checks without collecting ID documents or facial images. This improves age-verification security by leaving these checks to a specialized provider that focuses on securely processing sensitive identification data.

This approach reduces liability for individual websites. It removes the potential for fines or penalties if sensitive data is mishandled. This could happen if insider mismanagement or a cyberattack leaked or exposed biometric data or ID documents.

Yoti uses AI-powered facial age estimation to determine whether a user appears old enough to access restricted content without requiring an official ID. If the AI tool cannot verify the user’s age with sufficient confidence, Yoti may require the user to upload a scanned identity document to verify their age.

It is worth noting that Yoti is available to both individuals and companies. The company also provides digital identity services that allow users to store and present verified identification when needed. Age verification is one of several services that websites can outsource to Yoti.

How does Yoti age verification work?

Yoti age verification starts when you try to launch a website that requires proof of age. The website will usually display a message or pop-up asking you to confirm your age. At this stage, you will typically be redirected to Yoti’s age verification system.

After being redirected, you will be prompted to provide an age verification method. You can choose from any of the options that the website has enabled. These usually include selfie-based age estimation using AI or scanning an official identity document such as a passport or driver’s license. On some occasions, you may also be able to confirm your age using the Yoti app if the service supports reusable digital ID verification.

Once you complete a valid verification method, Yoti forwards the result to the website you are trying to access. This confirms whether you meet the required age threshold and allows you to continue to the website.

Reusable digital ID and verification tokens

Yoti may also place verification tokens in your browser (similar to cookies). These allow participating websites to recognize that your age has already been verified when you return. In some cases, Yoti may also store a device-based identifier so that you do not need to repeat the verification process every time you visit the site.

If you are logged in to the website (such as when verification is required for Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter/X, or another platform where you have an account), the service provider may also store your verification status directly on your account. This prevents you from needing to verify multiple times.

If you use multiple websites or services that require age verification through an accredited Identity Service Provider (IDSP), you may decide to set up a Yoti account through the mobile app. This allows you to verify your age more quickly without needing to rescan your ID or repeat the facial scan each time.

The Yoti app acts as a reusable digital ID. It remembers that you have already verified your age and can pass that information to supported websites. Whether you verify via the app or the embedded web service, the website itself should not receive any additional identity information. Instead, it typically only receives confirmation such as “over 18” or “under 16.”

Is Yoti safe?

For an age verification service to be considered safe, it must use reliable encryption to protect user data both in transit and at rest. This ensures that sensitive information, including biometric data such as facial images, is processed securely by Yoti’s systems.

To determine whether Yoti is safe, it is important to understand what protections the service provides and what it is permitted to do with your data after it is collected. This requires examining Yoti’s technical safeguards and privacy policies.

Below, I analyze the security methods and policies that Yoti has in place. You can use these findings to decide whether you trust Yoti to handle your information.

Prefer not to provide biometric data or ID documents to access certain websites? Later in this guide, I explain alternative ways people protect their privacy online, including the use of VPNs.

How does Yoti secure data?

A chief reason that websites employ Yoti as their age verification partner is that it handles data securely. Yoti encrypts ID documents and face scans in transit using reliable TLS 1.2 or TLS 1.3. These are widely used standards for website transport layer security, and many organizations consider them suitable for transmitting sensitive data over the internet.

It is worth noting that although many experts consider TLS 1.2 and above secure, this is not true end-to-end encryption. Many security experts argue that when highly sensitive or personal data is involved, it is better to protect it with keys held only by the sender and receiver. This reduces the risk of exposure because only the sender and recipient hold the encryption keys.

The important thing to note is that while Yoti does provide end-to-end encryption for some of its services, such as its Digital ID Wallet, this does not apply to embedded age verification services used by third-party websites like Instagram or OnlyFans. In these cases, the data is transmitted using TLS 1.2 or 1.3 and then processed on Yoti’s systems.

What happens to your data once it reaches Yoti?

Once ID data arrives on Yoti’s servers, it is processed within the company’s infrastructure. As with any centralized system that processes sensitive data, this creates potential risks such as mismanagement, software bugs, leaks, or cyberattacks if an attacker were ever able to gain access to internal systems.

To minimize these risks, Yoti states that it processes facial age estimation data or identity documents immediately and deletes that data once the age check ends. This means that Yoti’s automated systems make age verification decisions in real time and remove the associated PII shortly afterward.

This reduces the need for Yoti to store biometric or identification data long term, which lowers its attack surface and helps the company comply with data minimization principles in privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA.

What security accreditations does Yoti have?

On its website, Yoti states that it complies with several internationally recognized security certifications and standards, including:

• ISO 27001 (information security management)
• ISO 27701 (privacy information management)
• SOC 2 Type II (security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy controls)
• PAS 1296:2018 (age-check code of practice, validated via SOC 2)
• GDPR compliance (operates as a data processor under UK and EU data protection law)
• FSM (German self-regulation framework for protecting minors online)
• ACCS and AVPA (age verification standards bodies)

Yoti also states that it conducts regular penetration testing to identify potential security weaknesses. The company that carries out these tests is not specifically named. However, Yoti says the UK National Cyber Security Centre CHECK penetration testing scheme has assured the auditor.

However, there is no evidence of comprehensive platform code reviews beyond the scope of these penetration tests, nor do named third parties publicly disclose full source code audits.

Instead, Yoti operates a bug bounty program on HackerOne that allows ethical hackers and security researchers to report vulnerabilities in exchange for financial rewards.

Are there any criticisms about how Yoti handles data?

The primary complaint surrounding Yoti does not relate to the way it processes IDs or verifies users’ ages via embedded services on third-party apps and websites. Those processes are generally considered compliant with security expectations under ISO 27001 and key privacy regulations such as GDPR.

The issue is the collection of tracking data (metadata and IP addresses) via its website. This was previously found to run contrary to its own privacy policies in a report published by Mint Security.

The report’s findings conclude that when Yoti establishes connections to Google and other third parties, those third parties receive the user’s IP address and device metadata (which can identify users).

Mint argues this contradicts Yoti’s privacy claims that “all age checks are anonymous” and that they “do not store device data such as IP addresses or browser information.”

Increased risks for users

Mint Security’s findings are not necessarily damning because they do not create additional risks regarding the protection of actual identification materials. That said, Yoti’s data collection is still problematic for a company that advertises itself as “privacy-first”.

Device-level identifiers such as advertising IDs (AAID), hardware name, screen resolution, IP address, and, in some app environments, MAC addresses can allow third-party analytics or advertising services to track users across websites when those services collect those identifiers. This means that identifiers gathered during an age verification session could potentially allow correlation or profiling across services.

Experts argue that this level of tracking is particularly sensitive due to the nature of the services users access, especially when verification relates to age-restricted content.

However, users who feel uncomfortable with this level of tracking should also be aware that the individual adult websites and services they use can collect IP addresses, metadata, and device-level fingerprints themselves.

For this reason, I recommend using a VPN when accessing adult content. Doing so helps obscure your IP address and can reduce the ability of services and trackers to link browsing activity to your real-world identity.

Which websites currently use Yoti age verification?

Many websites are already partnered with Yoti to provide age verification that protects minors. This includes social media websites like Instagram, Facebook Dating, Discord, Bluesky, and Yubo.

In addition, gaming platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Epic Games, and Minecraft have also begun enforcing age checks. Music streaming websites like Spotify also enforce age checks to restrict access to songs with adult lyrics.

E-commerce sites, UK retailers (around 30,000), and delivery services also use Yoti to decide whether to serve alcohol and other adult products. E-commerce sites known to work with Yoti include Shopify, Salesforce, HubSpot, Reflex Gaming, Zendesk, Airtable, and ClickUp.

In the UK, Yoti also supplies services for the Post Office (EasyID), Lloyds Bank (Smart ID), and Improvement Service Scotland.

Can I sidestep Yoti age verification with a VPN?

Yes. If providing facial age estimation data or identity documents to Yoti (or any other age verification tool) worries you, you can protect your privacy by using a VPN. A Virtual Private Network is a privacy and data protection tool that allows you to hide your IP address from the websites you visit.

Using a VPN to conceal your IP address helps reduce profiling by adult services. It also prevents websites from seeing your real IP address, which is often used to help identify and track users.

Another benefit of a reliable VPN is that it allows you to change your location to a country or state where age verification rules do not apply. By connecting to a server in a different region, you can often access adult services without triggering local age verification requirements.

Just bear in mind that there are many competing consumer VPNs, and they are not all suitable for accessing services with age verification. Leading websites such as OnlyFans, PornHub, RedTube, and other platforms that may require identity verification (including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Spotify, Facebook Dating, and Yubo) have already blocked many VPNs.

This is why it is important to stick to a reputable VPN for bypassing age verification. Our recommendations offer strong privacy, fast speeds, and servers that work to unlock age-restricted adult websites in the UK and in the US.

How to bypass Yoti age verification with a VPN

Here are the steps needed to avoid giving Yoti your face scan or data:

1. Choose a reliable VPN for bypassing Yoti age checks. I recommend NordVPN for its fast NordLynx protocol and servers in countries where no verification rules apply. Surfshark is a great budget option if you are trying to save money, and Total VPN is ideal if you want a VPN that comes bundled with a reliable antivirus.
2. Sign up for the VPN. The links above all apply an exclusive discount for our readers. This lets you get a VPN subscription at the lowest rate possible. The VPNs I recommend also include a money-back guarantee so you can try them risk-free.
3. Install the VPN app. You can download it on your phone, laptop, tablet, smart TV, or Firestick. Leading VPNs provide dedicated apps for most platforms.
4. Connect to a VPN server. Pick a server in a US state or in a country where no age verification is needed. This will allow you to load the website without being forwarded to Yoti.
5. Navigate back to the website you want to use. Once connected, your VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. This helps to prevent tracking and allows you to use any website without age verification requests.

If you have any issues loading a website or service while connected to your VPN, I recommend clearing your cookies and cache. Trackers left in your browser during previous sessions can cause a conflict with your VPN. Once these have been cleared, the website should load without errors.

Remember: Age verification prevents children from accessing content that is unsuitable for them. Adults should only use VPNs if they want to continue using adult services privately and without exposing their data to an increased risk of breaches or leaks.

Which countries enforce age verification?

Wondering which countries enforce age verification rules for mature content? I have listed the primary countries where age verification is required below. Please bear in mind that additional countries, including Canada, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Malaysia, are also considering similar rules. This means the list below may change over time.

United States

In the US, age verification requirements for adult websites are handled on a state-by-state basis. At the time of writing, age verification is required in various US states. Additional states are also considering passing similar laws in the coming months and years. This means age verification requirements are likely to expand further.

Below are some of the key state laws requiring age verification for adult websites:

• Louisiana – House Bill 142 (2022)
• Texas – House Bill 1181 (2023)
• Utah – Senate Bill 287 (2023)
• Arkansas – Act 612 / Senate Bill 66 (2023)
• Mississippi – House Bill 1315 (2023)
• Virginia – Senate Bill 1515 (2023)
• Florida – House Bill 3 (2024)
• Tennessee – Senate Bill 1792 / House Bill 1891 (2024)
• Georgia – Senate Bill 351 (2024)
• South Carolina – House Bill 3424 (2023)
• Arizona – House Bill 2586 (2024)
• Missouri – Senate Bill 775 (2024)
• Ohio – House Bill 295 (2024)
• North Dakota – House Bill 1522 (2023)
• Wyoming – House Bill 43 (2024)

United Kingdom

In the UK, the Online Safety Act requires websites that host adult content to implement age verification measures. This is designed to prevent children from accessing pornography (and other content deemed inappropriate or harmful to minors).

The law is enforced by the UK communications regulator Ofcom, which requires platforms to implement robust age assurance measures. Yoti meets standards set by the UK Digital Identity & Attributes Trust Framework (UKDIATF) through an approved certification body.

In the UK, Yoti is also a recognized Identity Service Provider (IDSP).

France

In France, adults need to verify their age due to the French Digital Republic Law (Loi pour une République numérique) and the SREN Law (Loi visant à sécuriser et réguler l’espace numérique).

The SREN law passed in 2024 and gave the Autorité de Régulation de la Communication Audiovisuelle et Numérique (ARCOM) stronger powers to require age-verification systems on adult websites.

Germany

In Germany, the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media (JMStV) enforces age verification requirements. This law requires websites hosting pornographic or harmful content to implement measures that prevent minors from accessing that material.

The Commission for the Protection of Minors in the Media (KJM) enforces the rules. KJM also checks and approves the age-verification systems that online platforms use to ensure they are robust.

Australia

In Australia, the Online Safety Act 2021 governs online safety rules. This law requires platforms to prevent children from accessing harmful content online. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner enforces the law.

The government is still developing and deploying age verification rules. However, it is already actively exploring age-assurance technologies and regulatory frameworks, with additional age-check requirements likely to emerge over time.

Spain

Age verification is not yet required for all adult websites. However, the government is in the process of bolstering online safety rules to protect minors. The Organic Law for the Protection of Children and Adolescents against Violence (LOPIVI) already requires websites to prevent minors from accessing harmful content.

Spain’s data protection authority, the AEPD, is also considering age verification systems. If stricter rules are imposed, websites will probably use certified third-party age-verification providers like Yoti.

Yoti age verification FAQs