Know-how reporter
Getty PhotographsOnlyFans’ guardian firm has been fined £1.05m after giving inaccurate details about the measures it had in place to verify the age of its customers.
The platform – which is understood for internet hosting sexually express materials – says individuals who go to it have to be not less than 18 years previous.
It makes use of facial age estimation know-how – supplied by a 3rd get together – the place a selfie is analysed to work out how previous a potential person is.
The platform’s proprietor, Fenix, mentioned it was set to flag anybody who seemed to be below the age of 23, who would then be requested to offer an additional type of ID.
Nevertheless, it later disclosed the tech’s goal age had in actual fact been set to twenty.
Ofcom has concluded that meant Fenix contravened its authorized obligation to offer correct data, so levied the high-quality.
“Receiving correct and full data is key for Ofcom to do its job as a regulator and to know and monitor how platforms are working,” mentioned Suzanne Cater, Ofcom’s Enforcement Director
“We’ll maintain platforms to excessive requirements and won’t hesitate to take enforcement motion the place we discover failings.”
The proceeds of the high-quality – which has been lowered by 30% as a result of it has been accepted by Fenix – shall be handed to HM Treasury.
In an announcement, OnlyFans mentioned: “OnlyFans recognises the significance of offering Ofcom with correct and well timed data.
“We welcome the conclusion of this course of and Ofcom’s earlier choice to shut their investigation into our age assurance measures.”
The regulator made its preliminary enquiries in June 2022 and June 2023 utilizing powers that pre-date the On-line Security Act (OSA).
The OSA – which is coming into pressure totally this 12 months – locations higher obligations on tech companies to guard folks, together with the younger, from dangerous content material on-line.
Critics say it doesn’t go far sufficient, with the government conceding it’s “uneven.”
Taking harder motion on age assurance is a key requirement of the act.
Websites, together with OnlyFans, have been advised they might want to have “robust” measures in place by July 2025.
The platform is greatest identified for internet hosting grownup content material, with customers paying a subscription to view express materials, but additionally provides content material from musicians and celebrities.
In 2023, it launched a pornography-free TV streaming service.
