At some point recently, Apple or Google probably asked you to “verify your identity.”
Maybe it was for an app, a payment, a new feature, or even just to keep using a service you’ve had for years.
And if your first reaction was, “Wait… why do you need my ID now?” – you’re not alone.
This isn’t about curiosity. It’s about how the internet is changing.
The Internet Is Growing Up (Whether We Like It or Not)
For years, the internet ran on email addresses and passwords. That was enough.
But today, Apple and Google are dealing with:
- fake accounts
- financial fraud
- age-restricted content laws
- government regulations
- AI misuse and impersonation
- digital payments tied to real money
Basically, the stakes are higher now.
And when real money, real safety, and real identity get involved, companies start asking for real proof.
What They Actually Use Your ID For?
Apple and Google aren’t asking for your ID because they’re bored or collecting souvenirs.
They mainly use it for:
- Age verification (to follow child safety laws)
- Payment security (prevent fraud and chargebacks)
- Account recovery (proving you are you)
- Government compliance (especially in the EU, US, and India)
- High-risk features like wallets, ads, or developer tools
In many cases, your ID is verified once and not stored as a readable copy.
That’s an important distinction.
Apple vs Google: Same Goal, Different Style
Apple’s approach is very “Apple.”
They focus on on-device verification and privacy messaging.
When Apple checks your ID:
- it often happens locally on your device
- data is encrypted
- Apple claims it can’t see everything you submit
Google, on the other hand, leans more on:
- cloud-based verification
- partnerships with third-party identity services
- linking ID checks to account trust levels
Both want trust. They just go about it differently.
Laws Are Forcing Their Hand
A big reason this is happening now? Governments.
New laws require:
- proof that users are adults
- accountability for online harm
- verification for financial activity
- limits on anonymous abuse
Apple and Google don’t get to ignore this.
If they don’t comply, they risk massive fines or bans.
So yes – part of this is about protecting users.
But part of it is also about protecting themselves.
Is This the End of Online Anonymity?
Not entirely – but it’s definitely shrinking.
You can still browse, read, and watch anonymously in many places.
But when you:
- pay
- publish
- develop
- advertise
- use AI tools
- or access sensitive services
…you’re more likely to be asked who you are.
The internet is slowly shifting from “anyone can do anything” to “some things require proof.”
The Privacy Trade-Off (The Part That Feels Uncomfortable)
Let’s be honest.
Giving your ID to a tech company doesn’t feel great, even if they promise encryption and privacy.
The concern isn’t always misuse – it’s:
- data breaches
- future policy changes
- governments requesting access
- long-term tracking possibilities
This is why transparency matters so much.
And why users should always check what exactly is being stored.
So… Should You Be Worried?
Concerned? Yes.
Panicked? Probably not.
Apple and Google want:
- fewer fake users
- safer platforms
- regulatory approval
- and smoother payments
They don’t want your identity for fun. They want control, trust, and compliance.
The bigger question isn’t why they want your ID –
it’s how much power we’re comfortable giving in exchange for convenience.
That conversation is just getting started.
