OnlyFans slapped with $1.4 million fine for age verification lapses

The UK telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, has confirmed that it has fined OnlyFans for failing to verify the age of users accessing its content. The platform has been hit with a $1.4 million penalty, as it allegedly did not implement the necessary measures to ensure age verification and failed to provide details to authorities when required.

OnlyFans’ parent company, Fenix International Limited, reportedly did not provide accurate information about the platform’s practices for verifying user age and the effectiveness of its system. Last month, Ofcom concluded its investigation into the platform following allegations that it was not verifying the age of users, allowing minors to access inappropriate content.

Authorities point out that while OnlyFans had a selfie verification system in place, which was supposed to identify individuals over the age of 23, it was internally configured to accept users above the age of 20. This configuration error resulted in a higher rate of age verification failures.

The platform did notify Ofcom about the age verification error and temporarily raised the minimum age to 23 in January 2025. However, a few days later, it reduced the minimum age back to 21.

This incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of age verification systems on platforms like OnlyFans. With the increasing popularity of online content platforms, it becomes crucial to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect minors from accessing inappropriate material.

Age verification is a complex issue, and it’s not just limited to platforms like OnlyFans. Many online services struggle to strike the right balance between user privacy and preventing minors from accessing unsuitable content. It’s a delicate dance that requires constant vigilance and improvement.

The consequences of failing to implement robust age verification systems can be severe, as demonstrated by OnlyFans’ hefty fine. Not only does it tarnish the platform’s reputation, but it also highlights the need for stricter regulations and better enforcement in the online content space.

So, what can platforms like OnlyFans do to ensure better age verification? One approach could be to collaborate with external organizations specializing in age verification technologies. By leveraging their expertise, platforms can enhance their systems and reduce the risk of errors.

Additionally, continuous monitoring and auditing of age verification processes are essential. Regular checks can help identify any configuration errors or loopholes that may allow minors to slip through the cracks.

Ultimately, it’s crucial for platforms to prioritize user safety and take their responsibility seriously. Age verification is not just a legal requirement; it’s an ethical obligation to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.

As technology continues to evolve, so too should our efforts to safeguard users, particularly minors, from inappropriate content. Only by working together, regulators, platforms, and users can create a safer online environment for everyone.