GoKawiilOfcom investigates Pornhub owner Aylo over age-check effectiveness
Ofcom has opened a formal investigation into Aylo, the owner of Pornhub, to determine whether the site's age verification system—introduced in May and reliant on Apple's third-party checks—actually prevents children from accessing pornography. The regulator says it has concerns Aylo may not have carried out sufficient testing before rolling out the process, which could breach the UK's Online Safety Act requirement for 'highly effective' age assurance.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom can fine non-compliant firms up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover, so the outcome could carry significant financial and reputational consequences for Aylo. The probe also renews scrutiny of how effective age verification technology really is, especially after reports that UK traffic to Pornhub dropped sharply once stricter checks began, with some suggesting users simply turned to VPNs to bypass them.
- Ofcom is investigating whether Aylo properly tested its new Apple-based age verification system.
- The Online Safety Act allows fines up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover for non-compliance.
- UK traffic to Pornhub reportedly fell over 75% after tougher age checks were introduced, prompting questions about VPN use.
Source: bbc.co.uk — Watch Our Pick Of Standout Clips Across The Bbc, 2026-09-23
Published there as: “Pornhub investigated over its age checks”
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