Platforms already collect enough data to infer age ranges reliably. Formalizing verification closes loopholes predators use to contact minors under false pretenses, and lets platforms apply stricter content and contact protections automatically instead of relying on self-reported birthdates that are trivial to fake.

Age verification systems have repeatedly leaked sensitive ID data, and there's no evidence they actually stop determined minors from lying about their age. The privacy cost falls on everyone while the stated goal barely improves.

Holding platforms strictly liable would force them to over-moderate and take down huge amounts of legitimate speech just to avoid legal risk, since it's cheaper to remove borderline content than defend it in court.