Age verification is often promoted as the answer to protecting youth online. However, a recent report suggests some systems may collect far more than just a birthdate. When biometric scans, device fingerprints, and long-term data retention enter the picture, parents should pause. Protecting kids matters, but so does protecting their privacy. Before we expand age gates, we need better questions and clearer guardrails.

To truly create a safe, secure, and harm-free internet, online safety regulations must be applied fairly across all services and devices, not just social media platforms. Only then can we build a genuinely safer online environment for children and everyone else.