Pornhub blocks Australian users due to age-verification laws
Adult content platform Pornhub has blocked users in Australia after the country introduced new online safety codes requiring age verification. The move follows similar blocks in the US, France, and the UK. Users can bypass the block using a VPN, but experts warn of potential security risks.
Key points
- Pornhub has blocked users in Australia due to the country's new online safety codes requiring age verification.
- The block follows similar restrictions in the US, France, and the UK, where Pornhub has also restricted access.
- Users can bypass the block by using a virtual private network (VPN), such as ExpressVPN or ProtonVPN.
- However, experts warn that using a VPN can pose security risks, including potential exposure to malware and data breaches.
Pornhub's decision to block Australian users has sparked debate over the effectiveness of age-verification laws in regulating online adult content.
The new online safety codes in Australia require organisations to verify the ages of users, which Pornhub has deemed too costly and complex to implement. The block has been met with criticism from some who argue that it is an overreach of government control.
However, experts warn that using a VPN to bypass the block can pose significant security risks, including potential exposure to malware and data breaches. Users are advised to exercise caution when using VPNs and to only use reputable services.
The block is the latest development in a global trend of governments imposing age-verification laws on online adult content. The US, France, and the UK have all introduced similar restrictions, which have led to Pornhub blocking users in those countries.
As the debate over online regulation continues, it remains to be seen how Pornhub's decision to block Australian users will impact the company's business and the wider online community.
Sources
The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.