Grindr users in Australia have this week been prompted to verify their age, as part of a new process the platform says is aimed at ensuring user safety and privacy.
The move coincides with the Australian federal government’s recently introduced social media laws, which ban under-16s from accessing social platforms, although Grindr itself is not named in the legislation.
Age checks rolled out to users nationwide
Starting this week, some Australian users logging into the gay dating app were met with a message stating:
“To help keep minors off Grindr, we need to confirm your age.”
“Our automated system has flagged your account for review. You must be 18+ to use Grindr. You will not be able to use Grindr until you confirm your age.”
Users are then directed to an age verification page, where they’re given options to verify their age by either submitting official photo ID or recording a short selfie video.
Those who choose the video option are asked to record a short clip, which is processed using biometric technology by Facetec. Once verified, users are granted access back into their accounts.
A move aligned with Australia’s new youth protections?
The rollout of the age verification feature coincides with the Australian government’s unveiling of new legislation to prevent under-16s from accessing social media, though Grindr was not among the platforms officially mentioned.
A Grindr spokesperson confirmed the new feature was independent of the government’s actions but aligned with their ongoing efforts to keep users safe.
“Grindr is an 18+ platform committed to protecting user safety and privacy,” they said.
“We are introducing a one-time age assurance step for Grindr users in Australia.”
The platform further confirmed that the process is designed to be fast, secure, and respectful of user privacy:
“Any images or documents used for verification are encrypted and deleted once the check is complete.”
“Grindr utilises biometric verification technology from Facetec.”
While the age check rollout may take some users by surprise, the platform’s efforts signal a step toward greater accountability and responsibility in the digital dating space — particularly when it comes to protecting minors.
