Canada considers introducing an age ban on social media platforms. The plan would block users under 16 from TikTok and Instagram. But transgender rights supporters warn of unintended consequences.

The biggest problem: age verification. The government wants to use facial recognition and government ID. For many transgender and queer people this is an obstacle. They don't want to reveal their true identity publicly. Or their official documents don't match their gender identity. This can lead to discrimination or privacy problems.

Plan opponents say it harms vulnerable groups. Trans youth often use social media to find community support. A ban would isolate them. Adult trans people also fear ID checks harm their privacy. They could be excluded from platforms where they built networks.

The Canadian parliament still discusses the proposal. Meanwhile, privacy organisations and LGBTQ+ groups call for caution. They advocate for age verification without facial recognition or ID scans. A middle way must be possible, they say.