Steam Adheres to U.K.'s Age Verification Regulations Without Sharing User Data with Third Parties, Providing Enhanced Privacy Compared to Xbox

In the realm of digital entertainment, age verification has become a crucial aspect for accessing mature content. Two major players, Valve (the owner of Steam) and Xbox, have each devised their strategies to comply with the new regulations.

Valve's approach to age verification is commendable for its emphasis on privacy. The company does not require the sharing of sensitive information with third-parties, such as facial scans or ID submissions. Instead, Valve opts for a zero-charge credit card transaction to ensure the legitimacy of the account. To access mature content games and their associated community hubs, users need to opt-in through the account settings page.

On the other hand, Xbox has partnered with a third-party firm, Yoti, for age verification. Users in the UK, where the Online Safety Act has recently become law, are required to undergo this process for full access to the platform's features. The email notification from Xbox states that age verification will be necessary for social features like voice and text communication, as well as game invites.

The user, expressing concern about data privacy, encourages others to use the phone provider option or the credit card check for Xbox age verification. These options, like Valve's method, are less invasive and do not require the handing over of sensitive information. The phone provider option uses the user's existing number attached to their Microsoft Account, while the credit card check verifies the account's age through a stored card on the user's account.

However, the user expresses disappointment that Xbox is promoting a method that involves handing over identifying data to a company with unknown practices. They suggest, like Valve, Xbox should limit its age verification options to only two methods, excluding those that involve handing over sensitive information to third-parties.

For users without a credit card, alternatives for age verification on Xbox include using a PayPal account, redeeming a prepaid Xbox or Microsoft gift card, or verifying via parental controls and account settings that may not require credit card information. However, the specifics of these alternatives may depend on the region and Xbox policies.

Valve, in its compliance strategy with the new law, has outlined its commitment to user privacy and data security. It remains to be seen how Xbox will address the concerns raised by users regarding data privacy in its age verification process. Until then, users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their digital security and privacy.