Anthropic adds ID checks for select Claude users

Anthropic has begun requiring government ID verification for certain users of its Claude AI platform, linking access to some features and subscriptions to identity checks.

The requirement, introduced in April 2026, applies selectively to users accessing higher-tier plans, advanced capabilities or accounts flagged for internal safety reviews.

The move aims to limit abuse and meet compliance obligations, with Anthropic framing the rollout as a targeted integrity measure rather than a universal requirement.

Users asked to verify must submit a government-issued photo ID and complete a live selfie scan, with accepted documents including passports, driver’s licences and national ID cards.

“Claude now requires government ID verification (via Persona) before subscription,”

One critic wrote, adding:

“ChatGPT doesn’t. Gemini doesn’t. Anthropic just handed their competitors a gift.”

The verification process is handled by Persona, with Anthropic stating it does not store ID images and that all data is encrypted and used solely for identity checks, fraud prevention and compliance.

The change has sparked backlash and drawn comparisons with rivals like OpenAI and Google Gemini, which do not currently require similar checks, raising questions about whether stricter controls could shift users to competing platforms.