Kids Act Would Require Age Checks to Get Online

7 hours ago

Congress is set to vote on the KIDS Act, which combines revised KOSA with other internet bills to control web browsing and private messaging via an expedited process.
The act pushes platforms to verify user ages through methods like ID checks or age-estimation systems, despite disclaimers, leading to legal risks and privacy concerns for all users.
Age-verification requirements extend beyond KOSA to other parts like the SAFE BOTS Act and SCREEN Act, creating a less private internet and potential biases against marginalized groups.
KOSA requires platforms to police lawful speech around topics like drugs, gambling, and fraud, pressuring them to remove or restrict such discussions to avoid liability.
The act regulates private and encrypted messages, including ephemeral ones, threatening encryption and privacy features by demanding platforms 'address' harms in unreadable communications.
Overall, the KIDS Act promotes age surveillance, restricts free expression, and compromises privacy, urging Congress to reject it to protect online rights.

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