Richard MacManus

Well I finally had to verify my age in Bluesky, after receiving a direct message I couldn't open until I did so. The two options were: 1) face scan, or 2) via credit card. There's no way I want to do a face scan (ref Sam Altman's dystopian The Orb!). But I actually don't mind the credit card method, because I use that across the internet anyway.

Also, I support the UK government's effort to try and prevent underage people from accessing 18+ content (I have kids!). Bluesky process is fine.

Aug 4, 2025 at 10:34amPhanpy
Show threadSaskiaAug 4, 2025

@ricmac

Unfortunately, for an organisation, there isn't really an option that works.

I run the Newsmast Foundation's Bluesky account and I don't want to use my face (also, not sure they'd be able to correctly estimate my age; I always get asked for ID!) and we don't have a credit card.

It seems that organisations weren't taken into account with the methods offered, but that makes sense as it's Epic Games' verification system!

Hopefully a new method is introduced soon as we need DMs.

Show threadZelgaavAug 4, 2025
I'm not affected until other countries implement similar measures, but... Is it distinguishing different card types? Does it really require CREDIT card (noone in my closest family has), or does it accept any debit/payment card, which my children use since they turned 7yo.
Show threadRichard MacManusAug 4, 2025
@zelgaav in UK at least, I think it's a credit card only, since here you have to be 18 to get one.