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Microsoft’s approach to age verification in Australia is further proof that Valve is taking the everloving piss
Microsoft has told some Australian users that their age has been verified automatically based on longstanding account activity, removing the need for further checks on certain Microsoft and Xbox services. PC Gamer argues that this highlights the shortcomings of Steam’s approach, which requires Australians buying R18+ games to provide details for an active credit card.
The article says this is particularly inconvenient because relatively few Australians use credit cards, while debit cards are not accepted for the Steam check. It also notes that even users with accounts dating back to 2003 and existing R18+ purchases may still be asked to verify their age, although the writer acknowledges broader privacy and security concerns surrounding age-verification systems.
In short
- Microsoft can verify some users through existing account history.
- Steam requires Australian buyers to use an active credit card.
- PC Gamer says Valve’s single-option system is poorly suited to Australia.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Microsoft’s approach suggests age checks can be less intrusive when a service uses longstanding account activity to assess whether someone is an adult. Steam’s credit-card requirement can exclude Australians who do not have a credit card, including people who use debit cards, and may frustrate established users whose account history already indicates they are adults. A more flexible method could make access to legally restricted games easier while still pursuing age assurance.
The case against
Using account history to infer age may be less reliable than a direct check, and it raises questions about how platforms assess users and handle personal data. Requiring an active credit card offers Steam a consistent, readily verifiable threshold, while other verification options could bring privacy, security and implementation risks. The fact that Microsoft uses a different method does not by itself show that it would work as well for Steam or its users.
Explained simply
Age-verification rules are intended to stop children accessing material rated for adults. In Australia, games rated R18+ are for adults, and online services may use different methods to check a user’s age.
Microsoft runs services including Xbox, while Valve runs Steam, a major PC games shop. Their approaches matter to Australian players because the checks can affect whether they can buy or access adult-rated games.
Credit cards are one way to verify age, but not everyone has one, and a debit card is not the same for Steam’s check. Age checks can also raise privacy and security concerns, as they may require people to share personal or financial details.