The Story podcast

The Sunday Edition: The AI that could block kids from social media

4/26/2025
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This episode was originally published last December.


Australia is the first country to block under-16s from social media -- and age-verification AI could be a crucial tool in the ban. We spoke to our journalist who has been to the industry-leader’s HQ to find out if the technology actually works. And if it does, could the UK follow suit? 

This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory

Guests:

  • Mark Sellman, Technology Correspondent, The Times.
  • Helen Rumbelow, Feature Writer, The Times. 

Host: Manveen Rana.

Producer: Sam Chantarasak.

Further reading: Can AI tell if a teen lies about their age?

Clips: ABC News, 10 News First Australia, BBC Radio 4. 

Photo: Getty Images

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