Users browsing the web in the UK have recently been hit by new censorship rules, with a large amount of 18+ content being restricted without proof of age. No longer can you simply tick the ‘I’m older than 18’ box with no proof other than your word. And now, Spotify has joined the list of websites enforcing the new rules.

An age check has been put in place for UK users to access certain age-restricted content, such as music videos tagged as 18+. If you can’t prove your age via the facial scan technology or ID verification, your account will be deactivated, and eventually, permanently deleted.

Spotify can permanently delete your account if you want to access 18+ content without proof

If you want to access 18+ content on Spotify, you’ll be met with an age check. According to Spotify, this will affect “some users” using the platform. The audio streaming service has partnered with Yoti to supply this new process. Robin Tombs, CEO of Yoti, says that “young people will be better protected from the risk of accessing inappropriate experiences” thanks to the new age verification.

This news comes amid a wider crackdown on adult content online. We’ve recently seen plenty of 18+ games being removed or delisted from popular storefronts such as Steam and itch.io.

If your account was deactivated due to an inaccurate age estimation, you can look for the email in your inbox which allows you to reactivate your account within 90 days of deactivation and then go through ID verification. If we still can’t confirm you’re old enough to use Spotify, or if no action is taken within 7 days of reactivation, your account will be permanently deleted.

Source: Spotify

As seen above, Spotify will deactivate your account if you fail an age check, and it will remain that way until you reactivate it. Failing to take action will eventually lead to your account being deleted for good. So far, this new check is limited to the UK, but we could expect it to extend to other regions in the future.

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Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.