Bill S-209, a new Canadian Senate bill presented as a measure to protect children from online pornography, is criticized by University of Ottawa Law Professor Michael Geist as a “Trojan horse” for extensive internet surveillance. The bill, which recently passed a key Senate committee with minimal changes, would grant the government unprecedented power to regulate access to a broad range of lawful websites, including social media platforms like X, Reddit, and AI services such as ChatGPT. Geist warns that the legislation’s broad scope goes far beyond targeting adult content, potentially requiring Canadians to submit sensitive government-issued IDs to third-party providers, raising significant privacy and equity concerns.

Critics also highlight the bill’s reliance on unreliable AI-based age verification technology, which could lead to increased personal data exposure and discrimination. Senator Paula Simons was the sole committee member to voice concerns, emphasizing that the bill’s expansive reach into general social media regulation is disproportionate to its stated goal of protecting children from pornography. The bill is slated for a full Senate vote later this month amid ongoing debate over its implications for privacy, equity, and internet freedom.