Google Rolls Out Age Inference System in Canada, Raises Privacy Concerns

Google has rolled out its age inference system in Canada for YouTube users. The company uses machine learning to analyze user data, such as search history and video watch categories, to determine whether a user is under or over 18 years old.

The system will automatically apply age-appropriate protections for users it determines to be under 18, including Digital Wellbeing tools and restrictions on personalized ads. However, this method does not offer the same level of certainty as verified information, according to ISO/IEC 27566-1 standards.

Google's statement claims that its profiling tech was designed with user privacy in mind and minimizes the need for additional data collection. However, critics argue that it is another opportunity for Google to collect more user data.

Users who believe they have been incorrectly identified as underage can appeal by performing age verification through uploading a photo of their government ID or a selfie. The company does not specify if this process is performed in-house or outsourced to a third-party provider.