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UK's Online Safety Act Cuts Pornhub Visits by 47%

8/14/2025

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Story summary

Since the UK's Online Safety Act took effect on July 25, Pornhub has seen a staggering 47% drop in visits, with other adult sites following suit. While the law aims to shield children through age verification, it has sparked a surge in VPN use and raised alarms about stifling free expression, drawing criticism from figures like Nigel Farage.

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UK Censors Content

The UK's Online Safety Act is tightening its grip, extending censorship beyond adult content to include educational resources and political discourse. Companies, fearing hefty fines, are preemptively deleting content, raising alarms among critics who argue this stifles free speech and privacy, ultimately crafting a more restricted internet for everyone.

History

Historical Context

The 1984 Communications Act established key regulations for UK telecommunications, creating the Independent Television Commission to oversee content. Today, the Online Safety Act reflects ongoing debates about censorship and free expression, with critics like Nigel Farage warning of a potential decline in diverse voices. This legislation may lead to a more regulated digital environment, impacting user rights and critical discourse.

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Story summary

Since the UK's Online Safety Act took effect on July 25, Pornhub has seen a staggering 47% drop in visits, with other adult sites following suit. While the law aims to shield children through age verification, it has sparked a surge in VPN use and raised alarms about stifling free expression, drawing criticism from figures like Nigel Farage.

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