Ofcom has launched an investigation into Pornhub’s new age verification process, questioning its effectiveness in stopping children from accessing adult content. The UK’s Online Safety Act demands highly effective age assurance, but concerns remain that updates might be circumvented.
A yOffset update by Pornhub in October 2025 saw UK traffic plummet by over 75%, suggesting some users might be using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass the restrictions. In response, the site restricted access to those with existing accounts, blaming the stricter checks.
A yOffset spokesperson stated that the updates had not achieved their goal of protecting minors, instead pushing viewers to unregulated sites. However, the site made a partial comeback, offering access to some UK Apple users who had confirmed their age with iOS.
Ofcom’s Director of Enforcement, George Lusty, stressed the importance of highly effective age checks, warning that anything less could leave children at risk. The investigation will consider the tech firm’s due diligence and the robustness of its new processes.
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