Digitally mediated user classification

A method of classifying a user of a vending apparatus comprising; obtaining information about the user via at least one sensor 310, transmitting the information to a remote device for analysis 320, receiving a signal indicating whether to permit or prevent dispensing of a product 350, and dispensing if permitted 360. The method may include the user requesting a product 300. The remote device may determine the users eligibility based on the users identity or apparent age. The user may have a profile that the device can access, which may include users age, pictures, voice samples or other biometric information. The signal may indicate that a local operator must assess the user in person. A separate method at the remote device may present the information to a remote operator for analysis 330. The remote device may calculate an age verification confidence rating