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In recent years, the online gaming industry has experienced significant growth, attracting a diverse audience of players. However, this growth has come with the need for effective age verification techniques to ensure that only individuals of legal age can access age-restricted content.
This article aims to explore the various age verification techniques employed by online gaming companies, the challenges they face, and the potential solutions available to balance security with a seamless user experience.
Age Verification Landscape
Online gaming companies face legal obligations to prevent minors from accessing age-restricted games, as well as concerns about maintaining a safe and responsible environment. Therefore, they rely on age verification techniques to verify the age of users during the account creation process.
The Problem With Traditional Age Verification Methods
Historically, online gaming companies relied on less reliable methods such as self-declaration or asking for the user’s date of birth. However, these methods are easily circumvented, leading to potential underage access. Nonetheless, some companies still employ these methods due to their simplicity and reduced friction during account creation.
Ways To Implement Age Verification
Government-Issued ID Verification – to combat the shortcomings of traditional methods, many online gaming companies have turned to government-issued ID verification as a more robust solution. With advancements in technology, users can now upload scanned copies or take pictures of their IDs, which are then verified by automated systems. This technique can often be met with hesitance and create additional friction for the users.
Biometric Age Verification – another emerging trend in the age verification landscape is biometric age verification techniques. By utilising a user’s unique physical characteristics, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, online gaming companies can ensure a higher level of accuracy and security. Biometrics not only provide an efficient means of verifying a user’s age but also offer additional security benefits, making them an attractive option for companies keen on preventing identity theft.
Mobile Number and Device Verification Services – one of the latest age verification solutions consists of utilising a mobile number. Mobile numbers can provide gaming companies with insights into the age of customers during the onboarding process with little to no friction ensuring a smooth process for all. Let’s face it, who doesn’t have a mobile number these days?
Challenges of Age Verification Techniques
While age verification techniques have advanced significantly, challenges still persist. One common challenge is striking a balance between security and user experience. Companies must ensure that their age verification processes are robust enough to prevent underage access, but also fast and seamless to avoid frustrating users. Long verification processes or excessive documentation requirements can lead to user abandonment.
Furthermore, streamlining the verification process through automation and reducing unnecessary friction points are essential for enhancing user experience. Implementing user-friendly interfaces, clear instructions, and reducing the number of steps required can help prevent user abandonment and frustration.
What Does This Mean For The Future Of Verification?
Age verification techniques for online gaming companies play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with legal requirements and maintaining the integrity of online gaming platforms. By employing a combination of government-issued ID verification, biometrics, and mobile number verification, companies can strike a balance between security and a seamless user experience.
Companies need to address the challenges associated with age verification, such as privacy concerns and user experience, to maintain trust and foster a responsible gaming environment.
Only through continued improvement and innovation in age verification techniques can companies effectively protect minors while providing an enjoyable gaming experience for their users.