Source: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2024/06/adult-sites-blocking-more-states-this-summer-to-protest-age-verification-laws/

Pornhub to Block Users in Five More States Over Age Verification Laws

Pornhub, a popular adult entertainment website, is expanding its list of states where users will be blocked rather than comply with age verification laws. This decision comes as five additional states, including Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Kentucky, and South Carolina, have implemented laws requiring websites to verify the age of users accessing adult content. Pornhub maintains that these laws are burdensome and ineffective, arguing that they would lead to a significant drop in user traffic and potential privacy concerns. The company is concerned about the potential for user data breaches if they are required to collect and store sensitive personal information for age verification purposes. They also argue that these laws are disproportionately impacting smaller content creators who may not have the resources to comply with the regulations. In response to the new laws, Pornhub will be blocking users in these five states, preventing them from accessing the website. The company has previously blocked users in Texas and Utah for similar reasons. This move is part of an ongoing debate about the balance between protecting minors and preserving online freedom of expression. Critics of the age verification laws argue that they are overly broad and infringe on the privacy of adult users, while supporters maintain that they are necessary to protect children from exposure to harmful content.

Summary

"Pornhub's decision to block users in five additional states reflects a growing tension between online freedom and age verification laws. The company's stance raises questions about the effectiveness and privacy implications of such laws, and highlights the challenges of balancing access to online content with the need to protect minors."

Updated at: 06.22.2024