States Tried to Censor Kids Online. Courts, and EFF, Mostly Stopped Them: 2025 in Review
Summary
In 2025, several states attempted to pass laws restricting minors' access to social media, but courts have largely ruled these laws unconstitutional. The EFF has actively challenged these laws, arguing they violate First Amendment rights of both young people and adults. The laws often require age verification and either ban minor access or require parental permission.
IFF Assessment
Courts and the EFF are pushing back against laws that could create privacy risks and restrict access to online resources.
Severity
Defender Context
While not directly a cybersecurity vulnerability, these laws, if implemented, could force platforms to implement invasive age verification measures, potentially creating new data security and privacy risks. Defenders should monitor legislation and be aware of the implications of age verification technologies on user privacy and data security. The trend toward increased regulation of online content and user data will impact security teams.