Google has initiated a new age verification system that is now being implemented not only on YouTube but also in Google Search, as reported by TechNewsToday.

Users in the USA have reported seeing pop-up messages on Google Search stating: "Your settings have been adjusted as we could not confirm your age." This signifies updates in Google's user policy.

Previously, age restrictions were mainly applied to video content on YouTube. Now, they could impact a broader range of activities, including image searches and access to certain websites. Google has officially confirmed the expansion of its AI-driven age verification system to services outside of YouTube in the US.

This development raises concerns among users regarding their privacy. Some are already considering alternative search engines like DuckDuckGo or Bing to avoid logging in and providing personal information for age verification.

Currently, instances of such notifications appearing in Google Search are rare, which aligns with the company's statement about implementing the new technology for a limited group of users. However, there are fears that this could become a new norm, altering the traditional experience of anonymous web searches.

A similar system on YouTube has already sparked significant criticism and calls for a boycott. The new restrictions may represent another phase in balancing user convenience and privacy.