UK privacy campaigners have hit out at Apple after it introduced age checks for iPhone users, warning that millions could be forced to hand over ID or credit card details to access parts of the internet.

Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, said the move amounted to a “chokehold on Britons' freedom” and compared the update to “ransomware,” claiming users risk losing full access to their devices unless they comply.

“It is absolutely outrageous that, overnight, Apple has put a chokehold on Britons’ freedom to search the internet, access information and use apps unless they provide sensitive ID documents,” she said.

“Apple has crossed the Rubicon with this software update, which is more like ransomware, holding customers hostage to ID demands that are invasive, exclusionary, and unnecessary."

Silkie Carlo, director, Big Brother Watch.

Software update demands photo ID or credit card

Apple’s IOS 26.4 software update asks UK users to confirm whether they are over 18 to access certain apps and online services.

According to an Apple Support Page, users can verify their age by submitting a credit card, using an existing payment method, or scanning an official ID such as a passport or driving licence.

Those who do not verify their age – or are identified as under 18 – will automatically have web content filters applied, potentially restricting access to parts of the internet and some apps.

Carlo said the requirements go “far beyond what UK law requires,” warning that demanding documents such as ID or credit cards raises serious privacy risks and could exclude users who do not have them.

“This means 35 million Brits who have paid hundreds or even thousands of pounds for Apple tech suddenly now have a child’s device unless they comply with invasive demands for personal information,” she said.

Apple says the changes are designed to comply with UK online safety rules introduced under the Online Safety Act, which requires platforms to strengthen protections for children.

However, the law does not explicitly mandate age verification at the device level.

Last month, Apple blocked the download of apps rated 18+ in countries such as Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. Additionally, the company announced new details about its age-verification tools that developers can use to “meet their age assurance obligations under upcoming US and regional laws, including in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana.”

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