Overview

• Similarweb data shows Pornhub’s UK visits fell about 47% in the first weeks after 25 July, with other major adult sites also reporting declines.
• VPN services saw a sharp uptick in the UK as users sought workarounds, with top apps leading download charts and providers reporting large spikes in sign-ups.
• England’s children’s commissioner called for “highly effective” age assurance on VPNs after a May survey found 70% had seen porn before 18, 27% by age 11, and most exposure was accidental and often via social media.
• The government says VPNs remain legal for adults and will not be banned, warning platforms that promote workarounds to children that they face tough enforcement and heavy fines.
• Ofcom has opened investigations into multiple adult platforms over non-compliance with age checks and can impose penalties of up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover.