Why is ChatGPT Suddenly Asking for Facial Real‑Name Verification?
OpenAI and Anthropic are both rolling out facial‑recognition identity checks for ChatGPT and Claude, turning formerly open AI services into regulated tools by using age‑prediction models, organization verification, and strict ID policies to curb abuse and prepare for more capable AI agents.
Recent screenshots show ChatGPT displaying a new pop‑up that requires users to upload a government ID and record a live selfie with 3‑D liveness detection; Anthropic announced a similar requirement for Claude. This signals a shift from AI tools being freely accessible public utilities to regulated services that need real‑name registration.
OpenAI’s Early Move
On January 20, OpenAI silently launched an age‑prediction model that evaluates four signals—account age, most active time window, typical usage patterns, and the user‑provided age—to calculate the probability that a user is a minor. When flagged, ChatGPT automatically blocks content deemed potentially harmful without notifying the user.
Developer‑Side Verification
In April 2025 OpenAI began requiring developers to verify their organization before accessing advanced API models. The process demands an official photo ID (digital IDs, driver’s licenses, or e‑IDs are rejected) and a webcam selfie. Each ID can be used for only one organization within a 90‑day window, effectively preventing “sock‑puppet” accounts. Unverified organizations are denied access to higher‑tier models, with OpenAI stating the goal is to “prevent unsafe usage while keeping advanced AI capabilities available to the broader developer community.”
Anthropic’s Parallel Rollout
On June 10 Anthropic emailed Claude users that, starting July 8, a new privacy policy will enforce identity and age verification. The verification mirrors OpenAI’s approach: a government‑issued photo ID plus a live selfie captured by a camera. Anthropic emphasizes that as AI agents become capable of performing real‑world tasks—booking flights, editing documents, interacting with third‑party services—knowing who issues commands becomes both a legal and safety concern.
Implications and Trend
Both AI giants are converging on mandatory identity verification for consumers and developers, driven by two main forces: (1) preventing abuse such as bulk account creation and illicit model training, and (2) ensuring accountability as AI agents act on behalf of users. The industry is moving toward an irreversible end of anonymous AI usage; users will soon need a verified ID to access the most powerful models.
Account registration duration
Most active time window
Typical usage patterns
User‑reported age
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