Fake Moustache Fools Age Checks, Sparks Online Safety Act Fears

This report reviews early outcomes of the Online Safety Act’s age verification measures, finding that while moderation and reporting have improved for some children, verification systems are inconsistent and easily evaded (from fake birthdates and account sharing to simple tricks like drawing a moustache to fool facial age-estimation). The piece highlights widespread exposure to harmful content despite the Act, rising privacy concerns over biometric and ID-based checks, and calls for centralized, privacy-preserving age assurance solutions to balance child safety with data protection.