OpenAI is beginning a global rollout of an age prediction tool for ChatGPT accounts. The system analyzes behavioral signals like account age, usage patterns, and stated age to flag potential minors. If incorrectly identified, users must submit a selfie via the Persona platform to verify adulthood. This move gates access based on user age.

This follows a period of heightened scrutiny for OpenAI, which faced a wrongful death lawsuit after a teen allegedly used ChatGPT to plan his suicide. The company has since formed a mental health advisory council and explored automatic restrictions for minors. The new tool appears designed to prepare for an upcoming adult mode that will allow NSFW content creation.

The rollout comes as platforms like Roblox struggle with their own age verification systems, suggesting underage users may find ways to circumvent these protections. OpenAI's approach is reactive, adding safety layers after feature launches rather than before. The effectiveness of this behavioral model in preventing access for determined minors remains unproven.