ChatGPT and Claude Introduce Identity Verification, Ending the Era of Anonymous AI Use

On June 17, 2026, AI developer Kai posted a screenshot on X showing ChatGPT prompting users to upload identification documents and take a real-time selfie video (including head turns, blinks, etc. for 3D liveness detection). A week earlier (June 10), Anthropic notified Claude users that it would update its privacy policy on July 8, formally introducing identity and age verification. Within six months, the two AI giants have tightened user verification, marking a shift from anonymous public utilities to regulated real-name systems.

Background: OpenAI's Gradual Verification Rollout

OpenAI has been ahead of Anthropic in identity verification by at least six months. On January 20, 2026, OpenAI silently launched an age prediction model that cross-references signals such as account registration duration, active hours, usage patterns, and self-reported age to determine if a user is a minor. Flagged users automatically have potentially harmful content blocked without notification; to lift restrictions, they must complete identity verification (real-time selfie or government ID upload, depending on region).

In April 2025, OpenAI enabled organization verification (Verify Organization) for API developers, requiring upload of physical identification documents (mobile driver's licenses or digital IDs not accepted), with each document valid for only one organization within 90 days. Organizations failing verification cannot access advanced API models. The official reason is "to prevent unsafe usage while enabling a broader developer community to access advanced AI capabilities."

Key Details: Verification Methods and Scope Expansion

• ChatGPT Consumer Side: On June 17, 2026, some users received pop-ups requiring document upload and real-time selfie video for 3D liveness detection. OpenAI's help center page "Why am I being asked to verify my identity" was updated simultaneously, suggesting verification is expanding from "flagged users" to regular users.
• Claude Users: Anthropic emailed users on June 10, stating that from July 8, verification may be required in scenarios such as specific feature usage, platform integrity checks, and security compliance, using methods similar to OpenAI (photo ID + real-time selfie). Anthropic noted that "as Agent tasks become more complex, verification scenarios may continue to expand."

Reactions and Data

• User Reactions: Social media comments include "What's the difference between this and opening a bank account?" and "Might as well switch to local models," reflecting concerns about privacy and convenience.
• Timeline:
  • April 2025: OpenAI enables document verification for API developers.
  • January 20, 2026: OpenAI silently launches age prediction model.
  • June 10, 2026: Anthropic emails users about identity verification policy.
  • June 17, 2026: ChatGPT consumer side shows face-scan pop-up.

Impact and Trends

The simultaneous push for identity verification by the two AI giants is driven by two core factors:

1. Abuse Prevention: API-side verification aims to prevent bulk registration, misuse of model capabilities, or use for training competitor models. The one-person-one-document, 90-day restriction blocks sock puppet accounts.
2. Agentification Demand: AI is evolving from chat tools to agents executing real-world actions (e.g., booking tickets, editing files). Clearly identifying "who is giving the command" has become a legal and security necessity.

The era of anonymous AI use is ending. In the future, using top-tier AI tools may require real-name authentication like opening a bank account—a trend that is irreversible under both regulatory and commercial pressures.