People in the UK now have to perform age verification selfies to watch porn online
As of Friday, anyone trying to watch porn online in the UK will need to take an awkward selfie or have a photo ID ready for themselves. The UK government announced it would begin checking compliance with its online security law, which requires any websites that publish or display pornographic content to implement an “efficient age check” system.
Ofcom, a UK media regulator, provides some methods for websites that offer a wider range of age verification, including credit card checks, photo ID matching, and even estimating the user’s age by providing selfies. Several popular porn sites, including Pornhub, the country’s most popular website, have agreed to the new regulations. In addition to popular porn providers, social media sites such as Reddit and Bluesky have implemented age verification systems that comply with the Online Security Act rules.
Savvy Internet users have circumvented age checks by using VPNs, providing fake Chatgpt generated photo IDs or taking high-quality video game character selfies. However, new UK laws also make websites promote illegality on age-verified VPNs. To ensure the Online Security Act is in effect, OFCOM will fine companies a fine of up to £18 million or 10% of global revenue.
