Anonymity on major artificial intelligence platforms is coming to an end. Anthropic, the company behind Claude, has implemented mandatory identity verification using ID cards or passports, thus transferring strict controls from traditional banking to the realm of large language models. This new policy aims to enhance security and ensure that only verified users can access their tools. The process requires users to take a real-time selfie and present an official document to confirm both age and geographical location. The biometric validation is managed by the external company Persona Identities, which associates each account with a real and legally traceable identity. The debate over privacy and AI This measure has raised concerns among experts and users, who warn about the risks of sharing biometric data with third parties. Unlike passwords, biometric information cannot be changed if compromised, which exacerbates the consequences of a potential leak. Storing selfies and documents on external servers adds a level of exposure that many consider unnecessary for a chat service. Anthropic defends the need for this control to prevent misuse of AI, although the decision could alienate those who value anonymity. Many users are already opting for local models that do not require personal data to be shared with large corporations, especially when these corporations acknowledge the potential dangers of their own technologies. Anthropic's move could transform the relationship between users and AI platforms. If mandatory identification becomes the norm, artificial intelligence would cease to be an open space and become a regulated environment, similar to financial services. The question remains how many models will continue to allow anonymous access while respecting user privacy. (Source: elnacional.cat)