FTC Shifts Jan. 28 Age Verification Workshop to Online‑Only Format

USA: FTC Moves Jan. 28 Age Verification Workshop Online Due to Weather

A workshop on age verification technologies scheduled for Jan. 28, 2026, will be conducted online only, the Federal Trade Commission announced on Jan. 23, 2026. The change follows forecasts of inclement weather in the Washington, D.C., area that could affect in‑person attendance. The event will still address a range of issues related to age verification, and participants can join remotely.

Workshop Focus and Agenda

The virtual session will examine technical standards, privacy considerations, and enforcement challenges associated with age verification tools used by online platforms. Experts from industry, advocacy groups, and government agencies are expected to share perspectives.

Weather‑Driven Change

Officials cited the National Weather Service’s warning of severe storms as the primary reason for canceling the on‑site component. By shifting to an online format, the FTC aims to maintain the workshop’s schedule while ensuring the safety of staff and attendees.

Online Access Details

A live webcast link will be posted on FTC.gov and the event’s dedicated page on the morning of Jan. 28. The FTC plans to archive the recording for later viewing, providing broader access to stakeholders.

FTC’s Consumer Protection Mission

The agency’s broader mandate includes promoting competition and safeguarding consumers from deceptive practices. Age verification technologies are viewed as a tool to help protect minors from age‑restricted content and services.

Contact Information

Media inquiries can be directed to Juliana Gruenwald Henderson of the Office of Public Affairs at 202‑326‑2924.

This report is based on information from FTC, licensed under Public Domain (U.S. Government Work). Source: Official U.S. Government release.