Canada is considering a law requiring age verification on social media platforms. The goal is better protecting minors. But serious practical problems emerge for transgender and gay people.

The government wants platforms to verify user age. This could use facial recognition or government ID documents. Many transgender people find this problematic. Their identity documents often don't match their gender identity. Facial recognition may wrongly deny transgender people access. It can also expose them to unwanted questions.

Gay and bisexual youth are also concerned. Their parents sometimes don't know about their identity. If parents help with age verification, this harms their privacy. Transgender minors cannot register easily without coming out.

Digital rights advocates call for careful implementation. The government must first study how these systems affect vulnerable groups. Experts suggest platforms offer multiple verification methods. This way, not everyone needs the same proof.

Canada is now talking with organisations defending transgender and LGBTQ+ rights. The question remains how the country balances minor safety with marginalised group privacy.