Steam has announced the implementation of a new age verification system for its users in the UK, which requires them to confirm their age before accessing the Steam Store and its features, due to the presence of mature content on the platform.

The new policy began to emerge after users noticed an update on Steam's FAQ page, explaining that the action comes in compliance with the regulations of Ofcom, the independent body responsible for regulating online safety in the UK. The Steam clarification reads:In the United Kingdom, Ofcom is the independent regulator of online safety. According to the guidelines of the Online Safety Act (OSA), one of the most effective means of age verification is to verify a credit card, as in the UK an individual can only get a credit card after they turn 18, which means that card issuers are obliged to verify the age of the applicant before issuing the card.