Missouri'S New Age Limit Law: What Online Users Need To Know

Missouri Rolls Out Age Verification Rules

Starting November 30, 2025, Missouri residents will need to verify their age before accessing online content labeled as "harmful to minors." The state joins the growing list of US regions implementing such measures to control access to adult-only content.

Under the new legislation, any website or app with over 33% adult content must ensure users are over 18. Failure to comply could cost service providers up to $10,000 daily in fines. This move has sparked debate, with critics suggesting the law's terms are too vague, potentially impacting privacy and digital safety.

Privacy Concerns Amid Compliance

While the law aims to protect minors, it raises significant concerns about data privacy. To comply, platforms can use digital IDs or government-issued documents for age checks, but experts warn this could create privacy risks. Activists argue it builds a "dangerous new surveillance infrastructure" rather than ensuring safety.

"By forcing everyone to hand over their most valuable and sensitive identity data, the law builds out a dangerous new surveillance infrastructure instead of actually keeping young people safe," an Electronic Frontier Foundation representative commented.

Tech Giants' Role and Challenges

Interestingly, tech giants like Google and Apple need to step up, providing secure digital ID tools for compliance. Yet, these features are mostly limited to existing ID checks like driver's licenses and airport verifications, leaving a gap in readiness. This creates a dilemma for users concerned about sharing sensitive info for online access.

Solutions for Digital Security

As privacy concerns loom, using a VPN is recommended to enhance online security. With Black Friday deals rolling out, VPNs like NordVPN offer discounts on their services, boasting global server options, device connectivity, and ad-blocking features.

For those wary of compromising ID confidentiality, investing in a VPN now could be a strategic move. NordVPN, for instance, provides robust security features, making it a top choice among privacy advocates.