UK watchdog opens probe into Pornhub age checks

Britain's media regulator Ofcom has launched an investigation into adult content platform Pornhub, according to a Sept 23 report. The inquiry aims to determine if Pornhub has complied with its legal obligation to prevent children from accessing pornography. Under the Online Safety Act, online platforms must implement age checks to prevent under-18s from viewing pornographic content.

Aylo, the service provider behind Pornhub, stated in May that it would rely on Apple's age-verification process to confirm users are over 18 years old. Ofcom expressed concern that Aylo may not have conducted adequate due diligence and testing prior to implementing its new age assurance process. However, the regulator clarified that it would not assess Apple's age check procedures.

Ofcom's investigation will not conclude whether Apple's age checks meet the required standards. The regulator retains the authority to impose fines of up to £18 million (£23.93 million) or 10% of a business's global revenue, or even block non-compliant websites. Previously, Ofcom has imposed fines exceeding £1 million on adult content platforms for failing to enforce appropriate age checks.