Critics Say Age Verification Is About Control, Not Child Protection

[cryptoenthusiast]

Spain’s proposed age verification rules have sparked sharp criticism from journalists, technologists, and public figures who argue the policies are less about protecting minors and more about controlling online speech. Several commentators accused the government of using child safety as justification for expanded surveillance powers.

Some experts note that current age verification systems are often ineffective, pushing users to bypass restrictions using tools like virtual private networks. Others argue these measures undermine privacy without meaningfully reducing harmful content.

Alternative approaches have been proposed, including blockchain-based proof-of-personhood systems that verify age eligibility without revealing personal identity—though such solutions remain largely experimental.

[johnblockbuster]

vpn workarounds are gonna be everywhere, these age checks are basically pointless