UK adult site traffic falls after age checks

One sentence editorial take on how UK age checks shape traffic to major adult sites and what it means for users and platforms.

Porn site traffic falls after UK age verification rules take effect

Pornhub traffic fell after age verification rules took effect in the UK. Data experts Similarweb compared daily averages from 1 to 9 August with July figures after the Online Safety Act required tougher checks, which went live on 25 July. Pornhub’s visits dropped by about 47 percent, from around 3.2 million daily visits in July to roughly 2 million in the first nine days of August. XVideos showed a similar decline, and OnlyFans also fell by more than 10 percent. Some smaller, less-regulated sites saw traffic rise during the same period as users explored different options. Pornhub’s spokesperson noted that a drop for compliant sites and a rise for non compliant ones is a pattern seen in other jurisdictions.

VPN apps surged in popularity in the wake of the rules, and Ofcom notes that around 14 million people watch online pornography in the UK. Authorities outline several age checks, including credit card verification, photo ID matching, and estimated age via selfie. Critics warn that the changes could push some users toward the dark web or other less-regulated corners of the internet.

The rule change aims to shield minors but can complicate privacy and access for adults who want to browse safely. The early data are a snapshot and may not reveal long term effects on harm or user trust. The broader challenge is whether verification reduces risk without eroding user experience or driving activity underground.

Beyond numbers, the policy raises questions about design, cost, and transparency. Regulators face a balance between safety and privacy, and platforms must choose verification methods that are effective and clear. The UK example could influence similar debates in other countries as policymakers watch outcomes and adjust.

Highlights

Policy design will matter as much as the numbers show.