Story perspectives

One in Three Brits Bypass Adult Content Age Checks

9/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A survey shows nearly one in three Brits access adult content without age checks, using VPNs to bypass the Online Safety Act.
The legislation, effective since July, mandates age verification for adult sites but is reportedly easy to circumvent.
VPN downloads surged by 1,800% as users attempt to evade restrictions.
While 64% support age verification, 48% worry it may lead to censorship, with many experiencing incorrect blocking of non-adult content.
Critics highlight vague definitions of "harmful" content, raising concerns about excessive censorship and the Online Safety Act's effectiveness.

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Story summary

A survey shows nearly one in three Brits access adult content without age checks, using VPNs to bypass the Online Safety Act.
The legislation, effective since July, mandates age verification for adult sites but is reportedly easy to circumvent.
VPN downloads surged by 1,800% as users attempt to evade restrictions.
While 64% support age verification, 48% worry it may lead to censorship, with many experiencing incorrect blocking of non-adult content.
Critics highlight vague definitions of "harmful" content, raising concerns about excessive censorship and the Online Safety Act's effectiveness.