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Irish Examiner
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
Colman Noctor: France pulls the plug on underage access to pornography
In a significant stride toward safeguarding its children, the French government has enacted stringent age verification laws targeting online pornography. Aimed at curbing underage access to explicit content, the move has sparked a global conversation on the balance between child protection and digital privacy. As of June 4, 2025, all adult websites accessible within the country are required to implement robust age verification systems. These systems must ensure that users are at least 18 years old, using details such as a credit card or ID document, before granting access to their content. In a novel move, the law introduces a 'double anonymity' mechanism, involving an independent third party overseeing the age verification process. These measures combined ensure that pornographic sites do not access the user's personal data. The regulatory authority ARCOM is responsible for enforcement and has warned that non-compliant websites will face significant penalties, including fines of up to €150,000 or 2% of their global turnover, as well as the potential for indefinite blocking in France. In retaliation, Aylo — the company that owns most of the major adult websites such as Pornhub, YouPorn, and RedTube — has threatened to suspend access to its platforms in France citing concerns over user privacy and data security. From last Wednesday (June 5), French-based visitors to Aylo-owned adult sites have been greeted with a message denouncing the country's age verification requirements. The company has indicated that if these laws continue, it will cease operating in France. The French authorities are standing firm against these threats. Free to leave The impetus for this legislation arises from disturbing statistics indicating that approximately 2.3m minors in France access pornographic websites monthly. Exposure to such content at a young age has been linked to distorted perceptions of sexuality, an increased risk of developing unhealthy relationships, and potential desensitisation to sexual violence. The French culture minister Aurore Berge wrote on X that it would 'so much the better' if Pornhub and other Aylo sites cut off access for French users rather than 'conforming to our legal framework'. She went on to say that 'There will be less violent, degrading and humiliating content accessible to minors in France.' Clara Chappaz, France's junior minister for artificial intelligence and digital technology, wrote on X, 'If Aylo would rather leave France than apply our laws, [it is] free to do so.' The ministers seem to have broad public support. A study by the eSafety Commissioner found that a significant majority of adults in France support age verification measures to protect children online, and those objecting to it seem to be a loud minority. Similar sentiments have been echoed in other countries, with a 2017 YouGov survey revealing that 83% of British adults agreed there should be an age limit for accessing pornography online. This view was particularly strong among British parents, with 83% supporting the introduction of age verification processes for access to pornographic websites. In New Zealand, a 2023 poll conducted by Curia Market Research for Family First NZ found that 79% of respondents supported a law requiring age verification on pornographic websites. Despite widespread support, the global implementation of age verification systems raises concerns in certain quarters about user privacy and data security. Critics of this new French law argue that requiring users to submit personal identification could lead to potential data breaches and misuse of sensitive information. It would seem the law's 'double anonymity' approach, which seeks to minimise data exposure by separating the verification process from the content providers, is not reassurance enough for some. Aylo representatives say the 'double anonymity' system is an ineffective mechanism because people's data could still be at risk of being divulged through hacks or leaks. They argue countries should be targeting developers of operating systems like Microsoft's Windows, Apple's iOS or Google's Android, rather than pornography platforms. French authorities have acknowledged Aylo's concerns about potential data breaches. However, they have emphasised that the 'double anonymity' system is designed to safeguard user privacy and ensure that neither adult content websites nor age verification providers can identify users or know which specific sites are being accessed. Making it a movement France's decisive action on age verification highlights the urgent need to protect children from premature exposure to explicit content in the unregulated online world. While maintaining a delicate balance between safeguarding children and preserving individual privacy rights, the implementation of thoughtful, privacy-conscious, and robust age verification systems represents a crucial step forward in our collective effort to protect children. As technology continues to evolve, our strategies must also adapt to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the younger generation online. As countries worldwide observe the impact of the legislation, it could catalyse a broader movement toward stricter online age verification protocols. It is encouraging to see that the European Commission has confirmed the introduction of an EU-wide age verification app, or mini-wallet, in July 2025, aimed at enhancing online protection for minors. Ireland is also making progress in promoting online safety for children and young people by offering educational programmes and resources, helping children, parents, and educators to be more informed. These initiatives include interactive talks in primary and secondary schools, which focus on topics such as protecting privacy, managing digital footprints, and understanding cyberbullying. Organisations like CyberSafeKids provide information sessions to raise awareness about online risks and practical advice on safeguarding children in the digital world. These and other similar initiatives have led to the implementation of voluntary codes regarding the delay of smartphone ownership in primary schools and the potential introduction of smartphone pouches in secondary schools. In addition, Ireland has introduced a new Online Safety Code, in October 2024, which marks a significant development in ensuring safer online experiences for children. Released by the media regulator Coimisiún na Meán, the code sets binding rules for video-sharing platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X. Platforms that fail to comply with the code's standards, including prohibitions on harmful content and the implementation of age verification measures, could face fines of up to €20m. The code aims to end the era of self-regulation by obligating social media companies to protect users from harmful content, including promoting self-harm, cyberbullying, and other illegal activities. These combined efforts reflect Ireland's commitment to creating a safer digital environment for its younger population. By integrating educational programmes with regulatory measures, the country is taking a comprehensive approach to online safety, ensuring that children are equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world responsibly. However, sometimes education and awareness can only go so far, and collective action is required. If we were to follow the bold actions of France and institute a compulsory age verification system, this initiative would lead to significant progress in protecting the safety of our children in the online world. Dr Colman Noctor is a child psychotherapist Read More Colman Noctor: Using a sports psychology game plan to manage exam stress
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Now Pornhub ban spreads to EUROPE in row over under-18 access – and it includes two other major X-rated sites
PORNHUB has pulled out of France as a stringent clampdown on adult sites makes its way to Europe. A furious backlash over the country's new age verification rules has prompted the site to block access. Advertisement 6 French minister Aurore Berge said the decision meant there would be "less violent, degrading and humiliating content accessible to minors in France" Credit: Getty 6 Pornhub is the world's most visited porn site, with France being one of its biggest markets Credit: Getty 6 Aurore Berge added: "Pornhub, Youporn, and RedTube refuse to comply with our legal framework and decide to leave. Good!" Credit: Getty It comes over objections to a new law requiring porn sites to verify the age of users. Aylo, the adult entertainment company that owns Pornhub, has announced The company claims the French law The law could see users required to enter credit card details or other forms of official ID to verify their age. Advertisement read more in world news Aylo also runs other popular porn sites such as Youporn and RedTube - which will also now be unavailable in France . The company argues that device-based age verification is a better solution than requiring porn sites to police the age of users. Aylo's VP for Brand and Community Alex Kekesi said: "All it requires is that the government enforce regulations on three companies – Apple, Google and Microsoft – the three operating system manufacturers requiring age verification at the device level prior to accessing adult content. "The French government refuses to take this simple step and instead are focused on futile and entirely symbolic regulatory actions which are unenforceable, do not protect children and expose your private data." Advertisement Most read in The US Sun Pornhub is the world's most visited porn site, with France being one of its biggest markets. The website claims that France was its second biggest audience in 2024 after the United States. Kekesi added: "We've made the difficult decision to suspend access to our sites in France and instead use our platforms to speak directly to the French people. "French citizens deserve a government and a regulator who are serious about preventing children from accessing adult content. Advertisement "They also deserve laws which protect their privacy and safeguard their sensitive data." Greenpeace activists swipe Emmanuel Macron waxwork from Paris's Grevin Museum before using it in anti-Russia protest- 6 The company argues that device-based age verification is a better solution Credit: Alamy French Gender Equality Minister Aurore Bergé posted on X that Aylo's decision meant there would be "less violent, degrading and humiliating content accessible to minors in France". She added: "Pornhub, Youporn, and RedTube refuse to comply with our legal framework and decide to leave. Good!" Advertisement It comes after Aylo made similar moves to block access to its porn sites in several US states over age verification laws. So far, 19 US states have 6 The European Commission has also launched an investigation into several adult websites Credit: AFP The bans cover around one third of the US population. Advertisement Methods of checking under these laws can include providing a government-issued ID or even scanning a user's face. It has seen many porn sites opt to block access to their pages rather than implement such verification systems. States that have implemented these laws include Texas, Florida, Arizona and Virginia. The European Commission has also launched an investigation into several adult websites - including Pornhub - over accusations they had not complied with regulations aimed at stopping minors accessing porn. Advertisement The UK also has a law requiring platforms to have "robust" age checks in place by July. It is currently unclear whether the same porn platforms will also block access to their sites in Britain when this comes into force. 6 19 US states have passed laws requiring porn sites to verify users's age Credit: Alamy
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Now Pornhub ban spreads to EUROPE in row over under-18 access – and it includes two other major X-rated sites
The website is blocked in France as the company that owns it objects to a new age verification rule BLEU MOVIES Now Pornhub ban spreads to EUROPE in row over under-18 access – and it includes two other major X-rated sites PORNHUB has pulled out of France as a stringent clampdown on adult sites makes its way to Europe. A furious backlash over the country's new age verification rules has prompted the site to block access. Advertisement 6 French minister Aurore Berge said the decision meant there would be "less violent, degrading and humiliating content accessible to minors in France" Credit: Getty 6 Pornhub is the world's most visited porn site, with France being one of its biggest markets Credit: Getty 6 Aurore Berge added: "Pornhub, Youporn, and RedTube refuse to comply with our legal framework and decide to leave. Good!" Credit: Getty It comes over objections to a new law requiring porn sites to verify the age of users. Aylo, the adult entertainment company that owns Pornhub, has announced it will block access to the site in France as a result. The company claims the French law poses a privacy risk to users. The law could see users required to enter credit card details or other forms of official ID to verify their age. Advertisement Aylo also runs other popular porn sites such as Youporn and RedTube - which will also now be unavailable in France. The company argues that device-based age verification is a better solution than requiring porn sites to police the age of users. Aylo's VP for Brand and Community Alex Kekesi said: "All it requires is that the government enforce regulations on three companies – Apple, Google and Microsoft – the three operating system manufacturers requiring age verification at the device level prior to accessing adult content. "The French government refuses to take this simple step and instead are focused on futile and entirely symbolic regulatory actions which are unenforceable, do not protect children and expose your private data." Advertisement Pornhub is the world's most visited porn site, with France being one of its biggest markets. The website claims that France was its second biggest audience in 2024 after the United States. Kekesi added: "We've made the difficult decision to suspend access to our sites in France and instead use our platforms to speak directly to the French people. "French citizens deserve a government and a regulator who are serious about preventing children from accessing adult content. Advertisement "They also deserve laws which protect their privacy and safeguard their sensitive data." Greenpeace activists swipe Emmanuel Macron waxwork from Paris's Grevin Museum before using it in anti-Russia protest- 6 The company argues that device-based age verification is a better solution Credit: Alamy French Gender Equality Minister Aurore Bergé posted on X that Aylo's decision meant there would be "less violent, degrading and humiliating content accessible to minors in France". She added: "Pornhub, Youporn, and RedTube refuse to comply with our legal framework and decide to leave. Good!" Advertisement It comes after Aylo made similar moves to block access to its porn sites in several US states over age verification laws. So far, 19 US states have passed laws requiring porn sites to verify users's age. 6 The European Commission has also launched an investigation into several adult websites Credit: AFP The bans cover around one third of the US population. Advertisement Methods of checking under these laws can include providing a government-issued ID or even scanning a user's face. It has seen many porn sites opt to block access to their pages rather than implement such verification systems. States that have implemented these laws include Texas, Florida, Arizona and Virginia. The European Commission has also launched an investigation into several adult websites - including Pornhub - over accusations they had not complied with regulations aimed at stopping minors accessing porn. Advertisement The UK also has a law requiring platforms to have "robust" age checks in place by July. It is currently unclear whether the same porn platforms will also block access to their sites in Britain when this comes into force.
Canada Standard
6 days ago
- Business
- Canada Standard
Pornhub threatens to pull out of France
The adult content platform has accused Paris of compromising user privacy Pornhub, one of the world's largest adult content platforms, has threatened to cease operations in France in protest against stringent age verification regulations, which it claims could leave users' private data vulnerable to bad actors, hacks, and leaks. The platform's parent company, Aylo - which also operates popular adult sites like RedTube and YouPorn - has expressed concerns over the feasibility of complying with the French requirements by the June 7 deadline. Starting Wednesday, French users will be greeted by a message denouncing the age verification demands, aiming to explain directly "how dangerous, how potentially privacy-infringing, and how ineffective the French law is," a company representative told AFP. The French regulatory body, Arcom, mandated that adult websites implement robust age verification systems to prevent minors from accessing explicit content under a law passed in 2023. Non-compliance could result in significant fines or blocking of the website within France. The legislation envisions the use of third-party verification technologies that would confirm a user's age without collecting personal data. However, Aylo has argued that the current technological solutions either infringe on user privacy or are not sufficiently reliable. The company insists it supports age verification - but calls for more secure, device-level solutions. "Google, Apple, and Microsoft all have the capability built into their operating systems to verify the age of the user at the operating system or device level," said Solomon Friedman, vice president for compliance at Canadian private equity firm Ethical Capital Partners, which owns Aylo. "I understand that those three entities are large and powerful, but that is not an excuse for France to do what they have done." The French government maintains that these measures are essential for protecting minors online. Culture Minister Aurore Berge accused Pornhub, YouPorn, and RedTube of refusing to "comply with our legal framework" and deciding to leave "for the better." "There will be less violent, degrading, and humiliating content accessible to minors in France. Bye," Berge wrote on X on Tuesday. France's Digital Minister Clara Chappaz added that "requiring pornographic sites to verify the age of their users isn't stigmatizing adults, but rather protecting our children." Last month, President Emmanuel Macron confirmed his support for mandatory age verification not only for adult websites but also for teenagers registering on social media platforms, stating that online networks have contributed to suffering and mental health issues among young people. France, Spain, and Greece are also advocating for mandatory age verification on platforms such as Meta's Facebook and Elon Musk's X, according to Bloomberg. The three nations reportedly argue that the "lack of proper and widespread age-verification mechanisms" hampers enforcement of age limits. They aim to leverage the EU's economic power - with its 450 million consumers - to compel tech companies into implementing robust verification systems. (
