Age verification legislation is meant to put a “digital bouncer” at the door of adult websites. While bartenders have been squinting at IDs since the dawn of speakeasies, today’s online world demands a new level of scrutiny. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing innovation in technology, policy, and user education to create age verification systems that are effective, secure, and respectful of user privacy and rights. As with most new technologies, there are facts and fiction. Fact Checked by Woodhull addresses both.
Age verification policies are often touted as the most effective way to protect children online. However, research shows that age verification tools fail to keep minors safe and violate the First Amendment for consumers of all ages.
Online age verification laws require users to upload a government-issued ID or proof of age, or submit a facial scan or other biometrics. Supporters of these laws claim it is the same as showing your ID at the liquor store. However, online verification is far more complicated and poses a threat to users’ privacy.
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