Meta is stepping up its age-verification game with a new AI system that scrutinises visual cues like bone structure and height. This move comes after hundreds of under-13s sneaked onto restricted platforms using simple tricks, such as fake mustaches.

The company’s approach involves more than just face recognition; it includes analysing posts, comments, bios, and text for clues about the user's age. If Meta suspects an account is in the wrong hands, it will be suspended until the user revalidates their age correctly.

This isn't just a US or EU issue; Meta plans to roll out these measures across 30 countries, including Brazil. The tech giant also announced that it will automatically assign teen accounts for users aged 13 to 15, ensuring they have access to appropriate content and parental controls.

The European Commission has already ruled that Meta is in breach of the Digital Services Act for not effectively preventing underage use of its platforms. A survey by Internet Matters revealed that nearly one-third of UK children successfully bypassed age controls, with drawing a mustache being a common ploy.

Meta argues that no single company can solve this challenge alone and suggests legislation to ensure app stores verify users' ages before granting access. This could mean sharing crucial information about digital-age verification across platforms to create a more secure online environment for all.