Over 50 porn websites still lack age verification in UK

Recent findings reveal numerous porn websites remain unverified under a new UK law.

More than 50 porn websites evade new age verification law in UK

Despite new UK regulations requiring pornography websites to implement effective age verification processes, more than 50 sites can still be accessed by minors. An investigation by LBC found that these sites had either inadequate verification measures or none at all. The Molly Rose Foundation, formed after the tragic death of Ian Russell's daughter, expressed deep concern, stating the lax enforcement sends a harmful message about compliance with the law. Experts highlight that the existing content could potentially lead to increased sexual violence against young girls. The media regulator Ofcom has warned tech companies of consequences for non-compliance, yet enforcement remains lacking, leading to calls for immediate action against major platforms like Pornhub, whose methods are criticized as insufficient. The stakes have escalated, with potential fines for failing to comply totaling £18 million or up to 10% of worldwide revenue.

The continuing accessibility of these sites underscores ongoing struggles within the UK to secure safe internet spaces for children. New laws, rather than curbing online risks, are perceived by some as mere gestures without real enforcement behind them. Missing effective age verification results in a dangerous loophole that the industry easily exploits. This situation raises significant questions about the responsibility of regulators in protecting vulnerable populations from harmful content. As calls for accountability grow, the pressure will mount on Ofcom to take substantive action, potentially reshaping the landscape of online pornography in the UK.

Highlights

The issue illustrates the gap between legislation and reality in online child protection.