[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.