NY Age-Verification Rules for Algorithmic Social Media Feeds Finalized

New York will soon require users to verify their age before accessing certain social‑media features, according to final rules released by Attorney General Letitia James. The guidelines, which implement the SAFE for Kids Act signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in June 2024, mandate that platforms such as Instagram and TikTok confirm a user’s age before allowing algorithm‑curated feeds or post‑midnight notifications. The rules also specify how companies must determine user age and obtain parental consent for minors to use restricted functions.

The regulations outline detailed compliance steps for platforms covered by the law, including age‑verification procedures, data handling standards, and mechanisms for securing parental approval. Platforms will be required to provide clear, age‑appropriate disclosures and to ensure that children’s privacy is protected when accessing walled‑off features. The final rules aim to give parents greater control over their children’s online experience while maintaining a consistent approach across major social‑media services.

The SAFE for Kids Act will take effect on a date to be announced, with the new age‑verification requirements coming into force shortly thereafter. The legislation and accompanying rules represent a significant shift in how New York regulates online content for minors, emphasizing parental oversight and age‑appropriate access to digital services.