Pornhub To Block Access In Five More States In US Over New Age Verification Laws

Washington: The adult entertainment website, PornHub announced its ban in five new states in the United States, including Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, and Nebraska in response to new age verification laws. The company is protesting laws requiring users to upload government-issued ID to prove they are over 18 before viewing adult material.

Pornhub argues these laws pose privacy risks and could lead to identity theft. The company claims that similar laws implemented in Louisiana resulted in an 80 per cent drop in site traffic. They are concerned that this will push users to less secure websites that do not adhere to safety guidelines.

“These laws have not only failed at protecting minors but have introduced further harm,” Pornhub stated in a blog post. The company suggests a more effective solution would be age verification through device operating systems, which would require users to verify their age only once.

The adult entertainment industry faces increasing regulation across the United States. Some states have declared pornography a public health crisis. However, websites like Pornhub argue that the new laws violate free speech rights protected by the First Amendment.

Critics of the age verification laws, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, describe them as “surveillance systems” that could lead to the misuse of sensitive data. They worry about the collection and potential sale of private information.

Pornhub encourages its users to speak out against these laws and contact local governments to advocate for better solutions. The company highlighted that “normalising sex work and sexual expression is an uphill battle” but believes change is possible through education and public engagement.

As more states consider similar legislation, the debate over online privacy, child protection, and freedom of expression is likely to continue.