California Eyes Mandatory ID for Internet Access: Is Anonymity Ending?

A growing rumor suggests that Discord may soon require facial recognition to verify users' ages, and new laws in the United States—particularly California—could mandate identification for any operating system. This has sparked fears that anonymous internet use may be coming to an end. The proposed legislation would force users to verify their identity before accessing online platforms, raising concerns about privacy and the so-called "Dead Internet Theory," which posits that bots and automated accounts are overwhelming human interaction. Critics argue that these laws, potentially backed by corporate interests, could eliminate anonymity and tighten control over online spaces. As debates intensify, the future of free, anonymous browsing hangs in the balance.