Pornhub has begun restricting access for users in the UK from 2 February after tightening its age verification controls to comply with the Online Safety Act, which requires adult websites to verify the age of visitors. Under the new measures, UK users who have not previously verified their age can no longer watch pornographic videos on the site. Some non-explicit pages remain visible, but attempts to view adult material now prompt a login and age-confirmation screen. Only accounts created and verified before 2 February currently retain full access to explicit content. This is reported by The WP Times editorial team, citing BBC.
How it works for users
When visitors from the UK go to Pornhub and attempt to view adult videos, they are now shown a message asking them to log in or create an account and prove they are at least 18. Without completing the verification process, the video content is blocked. The age-check process requires users to submit information that confirms their age. Platforms can use a range of verification methods, from identity documentation to third-party age assurance services. The aim is to make sure children cannot access pornography online.
Why Pornhub made the change
Pornhub’s parent company, Aylo, said the new UK rules have significantly reduced traffic to regulated platforms. The company argues that strict age verification has pushed some users towards smaller or foreign sites that do not comply with UK requirements, potentially exposing users — especially young people — to more unsafe or unmoderated content. Aylo has denied that the access restrictions are a stunt to generate more registered users. Company representatives said the intention was to reduce traffic in the UK under the new regulatory environment rather than expand it.
Regulator response and enforcement
The UK media regulator Ofcom has said that most major adult platforms used by people in the UK have already implemented age checks in line with the Online Safety Act. Ofcom estimates that the largest services, including Pornhub, now account for the majority of visits to sites with age verification.
Ofcom is continuing to take action against sites that fail to comply with the law. In recent months, the regulator has opened investigations and issued financial penalties for breaches of the legislation, which came into force with the goal of making the internet safer for children and vulnerable users.
VPN usage and challenges
A significant challenge for enforcement has been the rise in virtual private network (VPN) use. VPNs can mask a user’s location, making it appear as though they are accessing the internet from outside the UK. Ofcom’s research found that VPN use increased notably after age verification rules were introduced, although it later levelled off. The regulator says higher VPN usage does not remove platforms’ legal obligations to verify age when serving UK users. Pornhub has said it does not recommend that users try to use VPNs or other technology to bypass the law.
What it means for UK users
For users in the UK, the practical effect is clear: access to explicit content now depends on completing age verification. Viewing adult material anonymously or without an account has become more limited, and sites that want to remain accessible to UK audiences must comply with the legal requirements.
Other large adult platforms are expected to continue operating in the UK with robust age checks rather than withdrawing access in the way Pornhub has. Enforcement by Ofcom remains ongoing, and regulators have indicated they will continue to push for effective age-screening across the sector. The move represents a significant step in the UK’s implementation of online safety rules, marking a shift toward tighter controls on how adult content is accessed and regulated, with the stated aim of protecting children and vulnerable people online.
Read about the life of Westminster and Pimlico district, London and the world. 24/7 news with fresh and useful updates on culture, business, technology and city life: What is known about Pornhub restricting access in the UK from February 2026 and why it matters
