You might be wondering why, when you’re buying something as simple as a knife, you’re asked to confirm your age by verifying with your bank. It can feel unexpected, but there’s a good reason behind it.

 

Why age verification?

In the UK, certain everyday products are legally age restricted. This includes anything with a blade. Retailers are required by law to make sure they’re not selling these products to anyone under 18.

 

What is OneID?

OneID is a trusted UK-based age verification service. It helps confirm your age online, without needing to upload a photo ID or enter loads of personal details. It’s designed to be quick, private and secure and you don’t need to create any new accounts or download anything.

 

Why does it ask for my bank?

Your age can’t be verified using your name and address alone, OneID will ask you to log into your online bank. This isn’t to check your bank balance or financial history it’s simply because your bank already knows who you are.

With your permission, OneID uses your bank’s verified records (like your name and date of birth) to confirm that you’re over 18. It doesn’t see or store your bank details, and your login is never shared with the retailer. It’s similar to how you might use your bank to log in securely to other websites (like when verifying your identity for a mortgage or credit check).

 

Is it safe?

Yes. OneID uses Open Banking, a UK-regulated technology that lets you share verified information from your bank securely and only with your permission. The process is:

  • Consent-driven: You choose whether to proceed or not.
  • Privacy-friendly: No one sees your financial data just enough information to prove your age.
  • One-time only: Once your age is verified, the check is done. You’re not creating a new account or handing over any details to the retailer.

 

What happens after?

Once your age is confirmed, the transaction continues as normal. Nothing else changes, and your information isn’t stored or used for marketing. It’s just a quick, secure check to confirm you’re old enough to purchase the product.

 

If you have any further questions, please reach out to our team via email at sales@whiteley.co.uk and they would be happy to answer any further questions.