Beware of the age verification trap on social media

Consumer Rights Association Chairman Ergün Kılıç stated that fraudsters who try to turn the age verification regulation on social media, which came into force today, into an opportunity should not be given an opportunity and said, "Age verification regulation on social media will only be made at 'turkiye.gov.tr' address, through the 'Age Verification Token' through the official e-Government." he said.

Kılıç evaluated the age verification regulation on social media to the AA reporter.

Reminding that the regulation came into force as of today, Kılıç said that users should be careful against fraudsters who try to turn this situation into an opportunity.

Kılıç pointed out that malicious people can target users with messages, e-mails and social media announcements containing statements that 'the account will be closed' or 'age verification should be done immediately' and said, "Age verification regulation on social media will be made only at 'turkiye.gov.tr' address, through the 'Age Verification Token' through the official e-Government. Within the scope of the system, information will be sent to social media platforms whether the age limit is met or not, without transferring the identity information of the users." he said.

Existing accounts have until March 31, 2027

Kılıç pointed out that the regulation will cover newly opened social media accounts in the first phase and said, "Age verification for existing accounts will continue until March 31, 2027. Therefore, users should not pay attention to messages, e-mails or social media announcements that the accounts will be closed." he said.

Emphasizing that the internet address should be checked when performing the transaction in question, Kılıç explained that the redirect links sent via text message, e-mail or social media should not be clicked.

Kılıç warned that people who request a fee or credit card information and password for the age verification process should not be respected, and stated that citizens who encounter similar situations should complain to the relevant institutions without clicking on the links.

Stating that citizens who encounter fraud attempts should document suspicious messages and sender accounts, Kılıç added that users should notify relevant social media platforms and authorized institutions, and in case of financial loss, they should contact their banks and law enforcement units without delay.