From January 1, 2025, Florida has joined 18 other U.S. states in implementing an age verification law that affects access to adult content sites, such as Pornhub. In response to this new legislation, the popular platform will block access to users in Florida, depriving residents of access to one of the most well-known adult entertainment sites worldwide. This measure has led to a significant increase in searches for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) among state citizens, who are seeking to bypass these restrictions.
The law, known as HB 3, states that websites featuring adult material must implement an age verification system before allowing access to users. This involves the need to submit official identification or use a state-approved verification system. While proponents of the legislation argue that it is a child protection measure, many critics believe it poses a threat to privacy and the free speech rights of adults.
The impact of these regulations has been significant, as states like Tennessee and South Carolina have also restricted access to major adult content platforms or imposed verification requirements. Despite warnings from experts about the dangers associated with these laws, lawmakers often seem to ignore them. Pornhub, recognizing the risks posed by these laws, has decided to block access to its platform in Florida, arguing that age verification requirements threaten user privacy and could lead to the improper collection of sensitive data.
The proliferation of these age verification laws raises serious concerns about privacy and freedom of information. These regulations could have a negative impact not only on adults, whom they purportedly seek to protect, but also on minors. In this context, the community advocates for less invasive solutions that address concerns about accessing adult content while upholding the right of citizens to browse the internet without providing sensitive personal information. In light of this, various organizations and activists urge lawmakers to reconsider these extreme measures and support the defense of digital rights and privacy.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish