[daveFNbuck]

I've had people ask to see my ID to verify my identity when using a credit card at several stores. When I buy cough medicine or alcohol, the cashier will not only ask to see my ID but will scan it and store it in a database.

[coldtea]

Those are exceptions, since for the first you always have the option to pay cash (and not show id), and for the latter it's required for proof-of-age to buy an age-restricted substance.

[daveFNbuck]

I have to show ID every time I buy anything at Costco, regardless of whether I pay cash. I'd also note that Facebook is an age-restricted product.

[coldtea]

>I'd also note that Facebook is an age-restricted product.

Only by their policy -- whereas for alcohol it's the law.

[Freak_NL]

That policy exists because of EU and US data protection laws for children under the age of 13. Facebook cannot legally allow them on their website without significantly changing the way their data is handled and requiring parental consent.

Facebook most likely doesn't mind the current state of affairs where preteens lie about their age (hook 'em early), but they do not officially condone it.

[electroly]

They do it because of COPPA, which is a law.