ESOIA840
Joshua Riley
[FYI request #33248 email]
Tēnā koe Joshua,
Thank you for your Official Information Act 1982 (the Act) request, received on 13
December 2025, in which you requested the following information:
1. Device-Based vs. Provider-Based Verification: Any documents outlining the
comparative analysis between "Device-Based/OS-Level" verification (using
Apple/Google APIs) versus "Provider-Based" verification (requiring platforms
like Meta/TikTok to verify users).
Specific interest: I am seeking information on why the "Device-Based" model
was rejected or not mandated, given its superior privacy characteristics.
2. Privacy Impact of ID Uploads: Any advice received regarding the privacy
risks of the "Provider Liability" model, specifically concerning the likelihood of
social media platforms requiring government ID uploads or facial biometrics
from New Zealand adults and children to ensure compliance.
3. Australian Consultation: Any correspondence with the Australian
Government or eSafety Commissioner regarding the privacy implications of
their Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024,
specifically regarding the use of third-party identity brokers (e.g., Yoti, k-ID).
I have considered your request under the Act.
On 23 January 2026, our office advised that
parts 1 and 2 of your request were
transferred to the Ministry of Education. You can expect a response from the Ministry
in due course.
In response to
part 3 of your request, I have interpreted your request to be for
correspondence received by myself. I have not consulted with the Australian
Government or eSafety Commissioner regarding the privacy implications of their
Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 regarding the use
of third-party identity brokers. I am therefore refusing this part of your request under
section 18(e) as the requested information does not exist.
Thank you again for your email. You have the right to ask an Ombudsman to review
this decision. You can do this by writing to [email address] or Office
of the Ombudsman, PO Box 10152, Wellington 6143.
Kind regards
Hon Erica Stanford
Minister of Education
