UK Minecraft players now face a stark choice: verify your age or lose chat access forever. Mojang’s new system rolled out today, blocking unverified users from talking in-game.
Minecraft Is Cracking down on Chat with Mandatory Age Verification, Starting With UK
Minecraft has started enforcing mandatory age verification for players in the UK, limiting chat and communication features for those who haven’t confirmed their age. Mojang says the change is meant to improve safety and align with UK online safety rules. Players who skip verification will still be able to play but won’t have access to real-time chat or certain social features until they verify their accounts. The system is expected to roll out to more regions after feedback from the UK launch.
According to the notice, Twitter explains that all UK-based players with adult accounts must confirm that they are at least 18 years old. Those who skip the verification will temporarily lose access to the social features, including the chat, until the process is completed.
But there is no need to worry because this change doesn’t affect the previous purchases, entitlements, Minecraft achievements, or even your gameplay history. Neither does it affect the ability to play and buy other important stuff inside the game.
So, one common question that arises among the community members is how you are going to verify your age. A solution is also stated in the notice that you will be prompted to check your Microsoft account email for the verification instructions. The age verification is itself handled by Yoti, a third-party partner that uses industry-standard encryption.
Mojang stresses the point that no underlying personal data will be stored with them. Once the age verification is successfully done, the data will be deleted immediately.
From the community’s perspective, Minecraft age verification could subtly change how players interact, especially on the multiplayer servers, where chat is the main pillar of teamwork and collaboration. Some players see this as a slight friction, while others don’t have any issues with it.
For Minecraft, age verification is just starting to happen in the UK to comply with the Online Safety Act. However, it can also expand to other regions if regulators elsewhere adopt similar rules. We also see this change mirroring the path Roblox had already taken to introduce chat restrictions by age group.
How do I verify my age for Minecraft using Yoti
Verifying Age for Minecraft with Yoti
Check your Microsoft account email for specific verification instructions from Mojang, as the process starts there for UK players.
Steps to Verify
Download the free Yoti app on your mobile device (iOS or Android) or access it via web browser to begin.
Choose a method like facial age estimation (take a selfie for an anonymous check), uploading an ID document (scanned with selfie match), or alternatives such as credit card, email, or mobile provider verification.
Follow the on-screen prompts: scan any QR code if shown, approve data sharing (only age threshold like “over 18” is shared), and complete the process-Yoti deletes data immediately after without storing it.
Post-Verification
Once done, chat and social features unlock in Minecraft; save a Yoti Key for future quick reuse across devices.
Mobile works best; avoid consoles initially by using a phone.
Set up a Yoti Digital ID step by step
Setting Up a Yoti Digital ID
Yoti provides a secure digital ID app for age verification, including for services like Minecraft in the UK. The process takes about five minutes using a smartphone.
Step-by-Step Setup
-
Download the free Yoti app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
-
Open the app and tap “Create a Yoti” or “Get Started” to register with your phone number or email.
-
Verify your phone or email with a code sent to you.
-
Add an ID document: Tap “ID documents,” select your country and document type (e.g., passport), scan the front and back, and scan the chip if prompted.
-
Complete a liveness face scan: Follow prompts to take a selfie from multiple angles to confirm it’s you-no data is stored after verification.
-
Add and verify an email address under “Personal details” for account recovery.
-
Set a PIN or enable biometrics for security, then back up your account.
Tips for Success
Use a valid government ID like a passport; the app guides you through consents for privacy and data use. Once set up, scan QR codes for quick verifications in apps like Minecraft.
