Anthropic to require ID verification for some Claude users

Anthropic, the creator of the AI chatbot Claude, is set to implement a new identity verification policy that may require users to upload government-issued documents and selfies. The updated privacy policy, effective July 8, states that this measure will be employed in "certain circumstances," primarily for users whose accounts are flagged for potential fraudulent activity, allowing them to appeal rather than face an outright ban.

The company explained that this is an update to its appeals process and applies to a "small subset of users." The verification process involves uploading a scan of a government ID, a selfie, and the creation of a digitized face geometry template. Anthropic states this is to help enforce its terms of service, investigate fraud and abuse, and resolve security issues.

This development occurs at a time when Anthropic is reportedly seeking to navigate complex relationships with the Trump administration, particularly concerning access to its AI technologies. The company has faced scrutiny and has had to pull certain models due to concerns raised by the administration. The Department of Defense had previously designated Anthropic a "supply chain risk."

Anthropic is utilizing Persona, an identity checking service, for these verification procedures. Persona is backed by Peter Thiel, an investor in Anthropic, and has faced user criticism and withdrawn partnerships in the past. Anthropic has not specified how long Persona will retain user data.