Goldman isn’t alone in his caution about online age verification. He points out that there’s no perfect way to confirm someone’s age online. Even the best systems have significant flaws.

According to Goldman, solutions to age verification end up on a spectrum of risks. Some methods pose privacy concerns, while others might threaten security. Each option has its downsides.
He worries that the booming age verification industry lacks a thoughtful approach. Lawmakers, he argues, need to consistently define what a minor is in legal terms. This clarity helps regulate who is affected and how their access is limited. Education for both parents and children could also empower them to navigate online dangers effectively.
Goldman warns that if current age verification laws are approved without careful thought, we could face a troubling future. Users might start to share sensitive information without considering the risks. Even the government recognizes that this could lead to serious problems.
He emphasizes that people should be cautious about sharing sensitive biometric data. If mandatory age checks go unchecked, it can send the opposite message, encouraging users to share more than they should.
Instead, Goldman proposes that lawmakers should focus on information-based solutions for age verification issues. He believes the challenges are less about technology and more about how we handle information. While technology can improve data accuracy, it won’t solve the underlying issue.
One practical step could be to verify age only when users try to access restricted content. Additionally, age verification systems should limit data collection and quickly delete sensitive information. Even though some vendors might ignore these guidelines, it sets a better standard for user protection. Given recent data breaches, this is especially crucial since many verification systems have mishandled sensitive data.
Ultimately, if the goal is to protect kids online, forcing them to constantly share sensitive information is misguided. The approach to child safety online should be comprehensive and collaborative, rather than leaving it solely to technology or individual solutions.
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