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A Fine Gael Senator has called for social media companies to crack down on “online lies” by forcing all users to use ID verification before they can use such websites.
In a statement posted to the Fine Gael website, Senator Maria Byrne said the measure would be “critical” for “combating misinformation and ensuring user accountability.”
“The recent false accusation involving an individual in Wicklow—spread by a fake social media account linked to a far-right campaigner—shows just how dangerous these accounts can be,” she said.
“An innocent person was publicly accused of inappropriate behaviour, all based on lies from an account that was unverified. This is completely unacceptable, and it must be addressed.”
Byrne said that such a measure would make it “significantly harder” for “bad actors” to spread “misinformation”.
“Introducing compulsory ID verification for all social media would help ensure that users are who they claim to be, and help save the gardaí time in investigating these claims,” she said.
“It would make it significantly harder for bad actors to hide behind fake profiles while spreading fear, misinformation, or harassment. We need stronger measures in place to stop people from weaponising anonymity to target others without consequence.
“This isn’t just about tackling malicious behaviour– it’s about enforcing standards and keeping people safe.”
She added that individuals using “fake accounts” have “the power to destroy lives, spread hate, or incite fear,” and said that individuals should be “held accountable for their words and actions.”
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