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EFF Slams California's Age Verification Law for Privacy Risks

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) criticizes California's AB 1043, which requires age verification for digital platforms starting in 2027.
The EFF argues the law undermines free expression and privacy by imposing barriers and could lead to over-censorship.
EFF suggests lawmakers prioritize privacy laws that empower users to control their data instead of age gates.
The proposal overlooks shared household device use and could expose consumers to data breaches.

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Story summary

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) criticizes California's AB 1043, which requires age verification for digital platforms starting in 2027.
The EFF argues the law undermines free expression and privacy by imposing barriers and could lead to over-censorship.
EFF suggests lawmakers prioritize privacy laws that empower users to control their data instead of age gates.
The proposal overlooks shared household device use and could expose consumers to data breaches.