New York to Require Age Verification on Social Media Starting in 2027
A new New York state law requires major platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, X, and YouTube, to implement age verification for their users. From January 25, 2027, personalized recommendation feeds and late-night notifications will only be available to those who have confirmed they are 18 or older. Without verification or parental consent, minors will retain access to the apps, but content will be displayed exclusively in chronological order and only from followed accounts. Furthermore, the platforms will automatically block all push notifications between midnight and 6:00 AM.
The regulations are based on the SAFE for Kids Act, which Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law in June 2024. Attorney General Letitia James published the final compliance rules on July 28, 2026. The legislation is designed to protect children and adolescents from addictive platform features that contribute to rising rates of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The law covers social networks where users spend at least 20 percent of their time scrolling through curated content.
To confirm age, platforms must offer at least one alternative method in addition to a government-issued ID. Users will be able to upload a photo or video, verify their identity through email or a phone number, or use a facial age estimation system. Data collected for verification purposes must be immediately deleted or anonymized. Companies face fines of up to $5,000 per violation, while basic search and messaging functions will remain fully accessible to underage users.
