Overview

• U.S. users report a sharp increase since September 24 in pop-ups stating account settings changed and requesting age proof.
• Flagged accounts lose access to age-restricted videos, receive non-personalized ads, and get tightened recommendations with uploads set to private.
• Many users who decline or delay verification find their accounts effectively limited or unable to restore full functionality.
• YouTube says its model relies on activity signals and account longevity, with appeals via government ID, a verification selfie, or a credit card.
• Privacy and security experts voice concerns over intrusiveness and possible false positives, while Google says verification data will not be used for advertising.