UK's Ofcom Investigates OnlyFans for Failing to Block Underage Access to Pornography

Ofcom, the regulatory authority for the UK's broadcasting and telecommunications sectors, has launched an investigation into OnlyFans, an online adult content subscription service, amid concerns about inadequate measures to prevent minors from accessing explicit material on the platform.

The probe focuses on OnlyFans' parent company, Fenix International Limited, and its alleged failure to implement effective age-verification mechanisms to safeguard underage users from pornography.

Ofcom's investigation stems from suspicions that OnlyFans may have provided incomplete or inaccurate information regarding its age assurance measures in response to regulatory inquiries. Despite OnlyFans' use of an approved age-assurance provider, Yoti, a reported coding configuration error resulted in an incorrect age threshold being applied, potentially exposing individuals under the age of 18 to explicit content.

OnlyFans has acknowledged the error and claims to have promptly rectified it, emphasizing its commitment to online safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

The investigation falls within the framework of existing regulations, particularly the Communications Act 2003, which mandates UK-based video-sharing platforms (VSPs) to implement adequate measures to prevent underage access to adult content. Despite the forthcoming Online Safety Act, which aims to regulate online speech and media, Ofcom's inquiry operates under existing legislation.

As the designated VSP regulator since 2020, Ofcom's role encompasses monitoring compliance with statutory obligations to protect minors from harmful online content.

The scrutiny facing OnlyFans underscores broader concerns surrounding online safety and the protection of underage users in the digital landscape. With increasing regulatory oversight, platforms like OnlyFans are compelled to enhance their age-verification protocols and ensure strict adherence to regulatory requirements. As the investigation unfolds, it highlights the imperative for online platforms to prioritize robust child protection measures and foster a safer online environment for all users.