Incode's Facial Age Estimation Now Processes On-Device, Not Server-Based

Shift in Age Verification Technology

Incode Technologies has announced a significant upgrade to its facial age estimation technology, which now processes data solely on users' devices. This change addresses privacy concerns surrounding the transmission and storage of biometric data, a key issue as more than 30 age assurance laws are enforced globally.

Global Compliance Landscape

Governments worldwide are implementing stringent age verification laws, with notable examples including the UK, Australia, and Brazil. The UK's Online Safety Act mandates age checks for under-16s on social media by 2027, while Australia recently tightened its compliance rules. In the U.S., many states now require some form of age verification for online activities.

Growing Concerns Over Data Security

As age verification becomes necessary, concerns about the security of biometric data collection are intensifying. Reports indicate a record high in U.S. data breaches, coupled with a significant public distrust in sharing sensitive information such as facial images. Incode's shift to on-device processing is designed to alleviate some of these privacy concerns.

The Rise of Agentic Fraud

The Identity Theft Resource Center's report highlights a troubling trend in fraud attempts, with significant increases in AI-assisted agentic fraud. These attacks rose from 3% of total fraud attempts in 2024 to an estimated 40% by early 2026, prompting a need for more secure verification methods.

Takeaways and Future Implications

Incode’s advancement suggests a potential industry shift towards more privacy-respecting methods of compliance with age verification laws. As regulatory pressure increases, platforms may be compelled to adopt similar technologies that mitigate risks associated with biometric data collection.