The Family IT Guy: Big Tech, Bad Policy & Real Online Safety for Kids

Send us Fan MailJulie Barrett is joined by Ben Gillenwater — The Family IT Guy, a cybersecurity expert with 30+ years of experience building and securing large‑scale systems. Ben has become one of the most trusted voices helping parents understand what’s really happening behind the scenes of kids’ technology, apps, and devices.In this interview, we dig into the truth behind today’s “child safety” laws — including the App Store Accountability Act, KOSA, and the growing wave of age‑verification mandates sweeping the country. These policies claim to protect kids, but Ben explains why they actually create massive data‑collection systems, expand surveillance, and give Big Tech and government unprecedented control over digital identity.We cover:Ben’s background in cybersecurity and why he started The Family IT GuyHow “kid‑safe” apps still expose children to harmful contentWhy age verification = identity verification = surveillanceThe hidden risks inside the App Store Accountability ActHow KOSA incentivizes platforms to over‑collect data and over‑restrict speechWhy these laws don’t stop kids from accessing harmful contentWhat parents can do TODAY to protect their kids without relying on Big Tech or governmentPractical device setups, routines, and digital literacy strategies that actually workIf you’re a parent, policymaker, or anyone concerned about privacy, digital rights, or child safety, this conversation is essential.Check out Ben's website and follow him on socials: https://www.familyitguy.com/👉 Subscribe for updates, alerts, and more interviews on tech policy, parental rights, and digital safety.  👉 Learn more about Protecting Kids Online at protectingkids.onlineSupport the showLearn more about Conservative Ladies of America: Conservative Ladies of America - Conservative Ladies of AmericaEmail me: [email protected] with me on social!(2) FacebookJulie Barrett (@juliecbarrett) / X (twitter.com)IG: @realjuliebarrett Conservative Podcast | Julie Barrett Womansplaining