In 2025, age verification mandates spread rapidly across various states and content types despite evidence showing they are ineffective and potentially harmful. California passed the Digital Age Assurance Act (AB 1043), requiring operating system providers to offer an interface for users to indicate their birth date or age. Rulemaking processes began in both California and New York, where attorneys general solicited public comments on methods and standards for age assurance under existing laws. EFF submitted comments opposing these regulations, warning of the risks they pose to privacy and free speech. The year also saw proposals for ID checks for non-digital products like skincare and diet supplements, as well as efforts to ban VPNs and mandate age verification for AI chatbots. Despite these challenges, EFF remains committed to fighting back against invasive surveillance regimes in legislatures, regulatory hearings, and courtrooms.
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