Fact check: What are the potential drawbacks of requiring ID verification for online platforms like Discord?

1. Summary of the results

The potential drawbacks of requiring ID verification for online platforms like Discord are multifaceted, including compromising users' privacy and the potential for blanket surveillance ^[1]. The implementation of age verification laws in the UK and other countries has been met with resistance from users, who are using VPNs to bypass the requirements, highlighting concerns about privacy and security ^[2]. Additionally, advocates argue that such laws are a thinly veiled attempt to normalize censorship and expand surveillance ^[3]. On the other hand, some sources suggest that ID verification could lead to increased security and prevent fraud, but these benefits are not directly addressed in the context of online platforms like Discord ^[4]. The introduction of age verification by Discord for UK users, using methods such as facial age estimation or identification documents, aims to respect user privacy but has raised concerns about the effectiveness and potential bypassing of the verification process ^{[5] [6]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A key missing context is the lack of discussion on the long-term implications of ID verification on user behavior and the potential for normalization of surveillance ^{[1] [3]}. Alternative viewpoints include considering the benefits of ID verification in preventing fraud and protecting benefits, as well as the importance of robust age verification methods to ensure the effectiveness of such measures ^{[4] [6]}. Furthermore, the perspective of users who prefer online or phone services and may be negatively impacted by the introduction of ID verification requirements is crucial ^[7]. The technical feasibility and security of age verification methods, such as facial age estimation, and their potential to be tricked or bypassed, also require more in-depth analysis ^[6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be biased towards highlighting the drawbacks of ID verification without fully considering the potential benefits, such as increased security and fraud prevention ^[4]. Additionally, the statement may overlook the complexities of implementing age verification laws and the diverse perspectives of users, advocates, and experts on the matter ^{[2] [3] [5]}. The framing of the statement could benefit from a more balanced approach, considering both the potential drawbacks and benefits of ID verification for online platforms like Discord, as well as the varied implications for different stakeholders ^{[1] [7] [8]}.