WhatsApp Tests Age Verification in India Ahead of 2027 Child-Data Rules

WhatsApp is testing an optional age-verification prompt in India as platforms prepare for DPDP requirements that will mandate verifiable parental consent for users under 18 from May 13, 2027.

— Filed Tue, 4 Aug, 2026, 18:30 IST · Source NDTV Profit · Updated

WhatsApp is testing optional age verification in India ahead of DPDP child-data rules, which will require verifiable parental consent for users under 18 from May 2027.

Why this matters

The test extends WhatsApp’s recent privacy-led age checks in India and follows scrutiny of its username plans, which raised impersonation concerns and drew an Indian request to pause rollout.

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