Bluesky is rolling out age verification in South Dakota and Wyoming

Bluesky, a social media platform, is expanding its age verification features to users in South Dakota and Wyoming. This move comes in response to laws in these states that require online platforms hosting "harmful" content to verify the ages of their users. Bluesky's approach will mirror its actions in the UK, where it has implemented age checks following the passage of the Online Safety Act. Users will be able to choose from several verification methods, including ID scans or credit card checks, using Epic Games' Kids Web Services. While the service will still be available to users who don't verify their age, specific features like direct messaging and access to adult content will be restricted. Bluesky has opted not to offer its service in Mississippi due to a more restrictive age verification law that would have required it to block anyone whose age hadn't been confirmed. The article notes that age verification laws are becoming increasingly common in the US, with 25 states having passed such laws and numerous others having similar legislation in the works. Bluesky expects more regulations in other states and countries in the near future.