Overview

• OnlyFans was fined £1.05 million by Ofcom for providing inaccurate information about its age verification processes in responses to statutory requests made in 2022 and 2023.
• The inaccuracies were caused by a coding error in the platform's age estimation tool, which flagged users under 20 instead of under 23 as initially claimed.
• OnlyFans proactively disclosed the error to Ofcom in January 2024, leading to the regulator's investigation and subsequent enforcement action.
• The fine was reduced after OnlyFans accepted Ofcom's findings and settled the case, with the company now setting the 'challenge age' to 21 to meet compliance standards.
• The case underscores the growing regulatory focus on online safety and the need for accurate reporting as platforms face increased scrutiny under the UK's Online Safety Act.