TikTok reportedly testing AI age checks in the US: All you need to know about the feature

TikTok users in the US are starting to notice something unusual: a new age verification system that’s quietly making its way onto the platform. Several people have shared that they’ve been flagged by TikTok’s AI, which decided they might be under 13 years old.

The platform already has rules around age, but this latest system seems to go a step further. Instead of simply relying on the age entered at sign-up, TikTok’s AI now appears to make its own judgement based on user activity or profile details, prompting some unexpected restrictions.

TikTok’s AI age verification system

Reports suggest that when Tik Tok’s system suspects an account belongs to someone under 13, it places limits on what they can do. This can include removing access to certain features like posting, going live, or using TikTok Shop. To restore full access, users are being asked to submit proof of age through a government-issued ID or a credit card, along with a selfie for confirmation.

Social media quickly lit up with stories from people caught in the rollout. Popular YouTuber KreekCraft shared on X that his account was nearly deleted because the AI thought he was underage. At 28 years old, he had to go through the full verification process to keep his account. His post sparked a wave of similar experiences, with others saying they were frustrated at having to “prove” their age despite being well over the limit.

Another user joked about the situation, questioning why they had to verify as if they were 15, when their age was “clearly” above 13. Others weren’t laughing, as they reported being locked out completely, saying they’d already sent in proof multiple times but still couldn’t regain access. For those who use TikTok to go live or sell products, this meant a direct hit to their income.

Tik Tok’s age rules in the US are straightforward: you must be 13 or older to create a standard account. Anyone younger is placed in a separate, kid-friendly version of the app, with limited content and features. This AI-powered verification seems aimed at enforcing those rules more strictly but it’s also catching some older users in the net.

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In short, Tik Tok’s AI age check is meant to protect younger audiences, but the early rollout has caused headaches for people wrongly flagged as underage. With no official statement yet from Tik Tok, it’s unclear how widespread this system will become or whether the verification process will be refined to avoid locking out genuine users.

For now, if you’re in the US and suddenly find your Tik Tok features restricted, it might not be a glitch it could be the AI deciding it needs to double-check your age.

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