Sony Age Verification Checks Roll Out To UK and Ireland PlayStation Users

Sony Interactive Entertainment is writing to all UK and Ireland users to request they verify their age as part of the company's commitment to creating "safe, age-appropriate experiences for players and families." In an email seen by IGN, Sony said that as part of its "compliance with global regulations," UK players would need to "verify your age later this year to continue using PlayStation communication features." This means that while you'll still be able to play games, collect trophies, and visit the PlayStation Store as usual, unverified UK players will not be able to access features like messages and voice chat. Players are invited to verify their age either by facial scan, ID, or a mobile number, although these verification methods can vary depending upon your "country or region." (Having received the email myself yesterday, however, I was unable to verify my age via my mobile/cell number due to "server timed out" errors, regardless of what device or browser I used). Interestingly, while Sony insists the need to verify your age isn't needed until an unspecified date "later this year," Eurogamer reports that some players have already received in-console prompts when trying to