Ofcom opens Pornhub probe over child-access concerns
The UK communications regulator Ofcom is investigating whether Pornhub’s age-checking measures effectively prevent children from accessing sexually explicit material. The inquiry will examine possible compliance with the Online Safety Act, which requires highly effective safeguards for under-18s.
The UK communications watchdog Ofcom has opened an investigation into Pornhub over concerns that children may still be able to access the website. The Guardian reported that the regulator is examining whether the site’s age-checking system is “highly effective”, as required under the Online Safety Act. The law requires online services to take strict measures to prevent under-18s from accessing sexually explicit content.
Ofcom’s concern is that Pornhub’s existing arrangements may not meet that legal standard. The supplied material does not explain which age-checking technology the site uses or identify the specific shortcomings being examined. The investigation concerns one of the world’s most visited pornography websites, according to the report.
The available information does not say when Ofcom began the inquiry, how long it will take or what evidence the regulator has collected. It also does not include a response from Pornhub or state whether Ofcom has reached any conclusion about a breach. Any enforcement action would depend on the outcome of the investigation.
This independently written report is based on information supplied by the named publisher. Vertrix News has not independently verified the source report.