WhatsApp tests age-verification feature in India ahead of DPDP rules

WhatsApp has begun testing an age-verification feature for some users in India as the Meta-owned messaging platform prepares to comply with provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act concerning children's data, according to a report.

The feature allows users to add their date of birth to WhatsApp and is currently being tested among a limited group, NDTV Profit reported.

Screenshots circulating online showed users receiving an "Add your date of birth" prompt, accompanied by a message indicating that forthcoming Indian regulations would require WhatsApp to seek information about users' ages.

WhatsApp confirmed the limited test, saying it was exploring methods that would allow users to verify their age while protecting their privacy.

"To comply with upcoming laws in India like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, we are testing privacy-protective ways for people to confirm their age," a WhatsApp spokesperson was quoted as saying.

During the testing phase, providing a date of birth remains optional and users who do not submit the information can continue accessing the messaging service.

WhatsApp also sought to reassure users that the test would not alter how the platform operates or affect their existing experience.

The company said it recognised that age-related information was private and added that such details would not be visible to other WhatsApp users.

The trial comes as digital platforms operating in India prepare for the implementation of provisions under the DPDP framework governing the processing of children's personal data.

Under the framework, platforms handling such data are required to adopt measures to establish whether a user is below the age of 18, increasing the compliance requirements for large social media and messaging services.

The development also comes amid increased regulatory attention on Meta's platforms in India.

Earlier this week, Meta apologised after a Facebook post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi concerning examination paper leaks was temporarily restricted.

Separately, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has reportedly asked WhatsApp to postpone the rollout of its proposed username feature amid concerns over impersonation and online fraud.

The feature is intended to allow WhatsApp users to connect with others through usernames instead of having to disclose their mobile phone numbers.

With IANS inputs