Anthropic Requires ID Verification for Claude Access

Anthropic, the developer of the AI chatbot Claude, has begun requiring identity verification for access to certain platform features, a step aimed at enhancing safety amid growing concerns over AI misuse. The rollout, announced this week, affects users attempting to use advanced capabilities, conduct platform integrity checks, or meet compliance requirements, and involves submitting a government-issued photo ID such as a passport or driver's license along with a live selfie.

The verification process, which typically takes less than five minutes, is managed by Persona Identities, a San Francisco-based firm specializing in secure authentication. Users must present an original physical document, as photocopies or digital versions are not accepted. Anthropic emphasizes that the collected data remains on Persona's encrypted servers and is not used to train its AI models or shared for marketing purposes. The company states the measure helps prevent abuse, enforce usage policies, and fulfill legal obligations. Accounts may face restrictions if users are under 18 or attempt access from unsupported regions.

This initiative follows a surge in Claude's user base, with millions joining...