Never Give Them Your Face
This opinion piece argues against the implementation of mandatory age verification systems on the internet, claiming they function as forced identity tracking rather than simple age checks. The author contends that these laws exploit concerns for child safety to normalize the collection of biometric and government-issued ID data from all users.
Why it matters
It highlights the growing debate over digital privacy, surveillance, and the trade-offs between online safety regulations and individual anonymity.
They want your face. It will be called safety. Verification. Age assurance . A small step to protect children. But strip the language away and the demand is plain: before you may speak, post, or read, you must first prove who you are. And the only way they've figured out how to do it is with your government ID, or with your face held up to a camera that decides whether you are old enough to be trusted. This is the deal now being written into law on three continents, and you are meant to accept it quietly. Don't.
The piece is written from a strong civil-liberties perspective, using emotive language to critique government and corporate policy.
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