Pornhub Restricts UK Access Amid Online Safety Act Controversy
Starting February 2, 2026, UK residents will face significant restrictions when attempting to access Pornhub and other adult websites operated by Aylo, including YouPorn and RedTube. This decision follows the implementation of the UK’s Online Safety Act (OSA), which mandates stringent age verification measures for online adult content.
The OSA, enacted in October 2023, requires platforms hosting adult material to implement robust age-verification systems to prevent minors from accessing explicit content. In compliance, Aylo introduced age checks in July 2025. However, the company reported a 77% decline in UK traffic by October 2025, attributing the drop to user reluctance to undergo the verification process. ([dig.watch](https://dig.watch/updates/uk-traffic-to-pornhub-plunges-after-age-verification-law?utm_source=openai))
Alexzandra Kekesi, Vice President of Brand and Community at Aylo, expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the OSA. She stated that the legislation has diverted traffic to darker, unregulated corners of the internet and jeopardized the privacy and personal data of UK citizens. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/p/x48zz6?utm_source=openai))
Consequently, Aylo announced that, effective February 2, 2026, only users who have previously verified their age will retain access to its platforms. New users will be unable to register or access content. Kekesi emphasized that while Aylo’s sites will be restricted, thousands of irresponsible porn sites will still be easy to access, highlighting potential gaps in the legislation’s enforcement. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/p/x48zz6?utm_source=openai))
The OSA’s implementation has sparked debate. Proponents argue that age verification is essential to protect minors from harmful content. Critics, however, contend that the measures may drive users toward unregulated platforms, increasing exposure to unsafe content and potential privacy risks. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the security of personal data collected during the verification process.
Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator responsible for enforcing the OSA, maintains that the legislation is effective. A spokesperson stated, We’ve taken strong and swift action against non-compliance, launching investigations into more than 80 porn sites and fining a porn provider £1 million, with more to come. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/27/if-you-live-in-the-uk-you-probably-wont-be-able-to-visit-pornhub-anymore/?utm_source=openai))
Aylo’s decision to restrict access in the UK mirrors its actions in certain U.S. states with similar age-verification laws. The company has previously blocked access in regions where it believes compliance would compromise user privacy and data security.
As the February 2 deadline approaches, UK users seeking access to Aylo’s platforms are encouraged to complete the age verification process to maintain uninterrupted service. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between regulatory efforts to protect minors online and the challenges of implementing measures that safeguard user privacy and data security.
