UK Operators turn age verification and anti-fraud Services APIs Into revenue opportunity


UK networks have enabled APIs that could turn Online Safety Act compliance obligations into a revenue stream,

Technology companies are partnering with UK operators to commercialise these APIs, connecting them with online entertainment and commerce sites to help implement age verification and identity protection capabilities.  

The API’s  helps online platforms meet the UK Online Safety Act, which now generate around five million additional age checks daily.

The offering age verification and anti-fraud services are through the GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative. Instead of exposing raw subscriber data, the APIs provide yes/no responses or anonymised signals drawn from operators’ verified records. Operators see these APIs as a wholesale product for developers, retailers, banks, and fintechs. Subscriber data points are kept private exposed in a privacy-preserving way, making compliance a billable service.

Early partners JT Group and TMT.ID are already handling hundreds of thousands of calls per month, showing commercial demand. Scaled across streaming, gaming, e-commerce and finance, transactions could quickly reach tens of millions monthly.

Calvert: network intelligence in the fight against fraud and scams.

Henry Calvert, Head of Networks, GSMA, said: “Age assurance is just one area where the smart use of mobile networks can support online entertainment and commerce sites, and safeguard consumers. By giving developers easier, secure access to the rich network functionality of mobile networks, we can also use network intelligence in the fight against fraud and scams. We’ve already seen the results UK mobile operators and banks have achieved through Scam Signal and look forward to building on these foundations.”

Matt Hemingway, Head of Network-As-A-Service, Virgin Media O2, said:“Through GSMA Open Gateway, Virgin Media O2 are taking a stand against digital fraud and identity theft. By launching these first APIs, we’re giving enterprises and developers the tools they need to deliver safer, more trusted digital experiences for consumers. This is a vital step in building a more secure connectivity ecosystem for the UK.” 

Hemingway: vital step in building a more secure connectivity ecosystem

Johanna Wood , Director of Network APIs, Vodafone Group said:“Vodafone is committed to creating a safer digital ecosystem for everyone. Through the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, these new APIs give developers and businesses the tools to deliver seamless age verification and robust fraud prevention. This continued collaboration among UK operators marks a significant step in protecting consumers, ensuring compliance with new safety laws, and building greater trust in the digital economy.” 

Wood: Vodafone is committed to creating a safer digital ecosystem

The Three APIs

  • KYC Age Verification Confirms a customer’s age for regulated products and services.

  • KYC Tenure  Confirms the age of a mobile number, helping spot synthetic or fraudulent identities.

  • KYC Match (launching end-2025): Cross-checks customer-submitted details with operator records.

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