Rules are changing for social media and dating apps, now KYC and age verification may become mandatory

News India Live, Digital Desk: To make the internet world safe, the Indian government is preparing for a major diplomatic and technological change. You may soon have to provide proof of your real identity and age to use your favorite social media platforms (like Instagram, Facebook), dating apps (like Tinder, Bumble) and online gaming apps. Under the strict provisions of ‘Digital India Act 2026’ and ‘DPDP Act 2023’, the government is preparing a rule in which KYC (Know Your Customer) and Age Verification can be made mandatory for users. The main objective of this step is to end the growing cyber crimes against women and children and the web of fake profiles. Why was there a need for these stringent rules? Recent reports of the parliamentary panel and the IT Ministry have expressed deep concern that there has been a flood of fake accounts on social media and dating apps without any identity verification. These ‘fake profiles’ are being used for online fraud, cyber stalking, and spreading obscene content. The incidents of targeting girls by hiding their identities, especially on dating apps, have forced the government to take strict action. Now companies will not be able to rely only on ‘self-declaration’ (filling only the date of birth), but will have to demand concrete proof. ‘Graded approach’ of 2026: Restrictions will be imposed according to age Under the proposed new rules, the government can adopt a ‘graded approach’ (phased approach), in which there will be different rules for different age groups: 8 to 12 years: strictest restrictions and mandatory parental supervision. 12 to 16 Years: Controlled access and content filtering. 16 to 18 years: Relatively fewer restrictions but tight monitoring. 18+ (Adults): Full access, but only after certified KYC. Aadhaar and DigiLocker can become the basis of verification. Proposals being considered by the IT ministry (MeitY) call for age verification through an Aadhaar-based token system or DigiLocker. Apart from this, modern technologies like ‘Facial Age Estimation’ (detecting age from face through AI) are also being discussed. Companies can be directed not to process the data of children under 13 without the certified consent of their parents. If an app is found violating these rules, it can also be slapped with heavy fines and bans. ‘High-risk’ flag on gaming and dating apps KYC is already mandatory for online gaming apps that involve real money, but now ‘age-gating’ may become mandatory for simple gaming apps too. A rule of ‘periodic re-verification’ may be introduced for dating apps, to ensure that the account is being used by the person whose identity has been certified. A ‘high-risk flag’ will be placed on profiles that are repeatedly reported, so that other users can be alerted in advance. Challenge of Privacy vs Security However, debate has also erupted among experts regarding these rules. Critics believe that asking for government ID on every app can put users’ privacy at risk and increase the fear of data leakage. In response, the government is working on ‘Privacy-Preserving Proof’ technology, in which the user will only have to provide certified proof of “I am 18+” without revealing their full identity. A big announcement regarding these rules is expected in the coming monsoon session.