Thoughts on ID requirements for internet use?

Do you agree with governments passing laws that require ID verification to use social media? Personally, I don’t. Australia passed a law where companies have to verify users' ages and block anyone under 16. Legislators claim the government won’t ask for IDs directly, but honestly, I have no idea how companies are supposed to confirm someone’s age without it.

I also don’t agree with ID verification for adult websites. While I don’t use them, I’m pretty sure most people wouldn’t feel comfortable handing over their ID just to access such sites. Sure, these laws are supposedly made to protect children, but to me, it feels like a massive invasion of privacy. And let’s be real—data breaches happen all the time, Users’ sensitive information could end up leaked, like what happened in Turkey. also, these rules can lead to people using websites or dark web that have unethical porn and also are unmoderated.

I’d never trust a company with my ID or upload it to the internet. Every website has vulnerabilities, and data breaches always can happen. Plus, governments could exploit this data for shady purposes. It could affect your freedom of speech or even put people in danger—like in countries where being queer is illegal. The internet is often the only safe space for LGBTQ+ who live in those countries to connect and express themselves with other queer people.

I just don’t get how people agree with these laws. Sure, protecting kids is important, but instead of enforcing intrusive measures, I’d rather see governments use their resources to educate parents. Teach them how to guide their kids, monitor their internet use, and block harmful websites. Education is a way better solution than trying to control everyone’s online life.