Canada has finally introduced the Safe Social Media Act (Bill C-34), a piece of legislation that cybersecurity expert Emily Laidlaw says may be a workable solution to rein in dangerous Big Tech platforms after years of delay. Laidlaw, Canada Research Chair in cybersecurity law at the University of Calgary, discussed the bill on the Full Comment podcast, recorded June 25, 2026.
Balancing Protection and Freedoms
Balancing protection for children online while ensuring free speech and privacy for everyone else has proven difficult. Ottawa has muffed it many times, leaving Canada decades behind other countries in monitoring the harmful excesses of social media algorithms, according to Laidlaw. Bill C-34 aims to address these gaps.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Bill C-34
Laidlaw explained the strengths and potential weaknesses of the legislation. The bill introduces a new “digital regulator” to oversee social media platforms, but concerns remain about its scope and enforcement. She questioned how far the act will go in protecting people from harm and whether it will force users to scan IDs and watch what they say online.
Government’s Long Overdue Action
The government has been criticized for waiting too long to act. Laidlaw noted that other countries have already implemented similar measures, putting Canada behind. The Safe Social Media Act represents a belated but potentially effective step toward curbing Big Tech’s influence and protecting citizens, especially children, from harmful content.
