Leading UK Websites to Halt Operations on February 2
The adult entertainment scene in the UK is poised for major adjustments starting February 2, 2026. A Canadian company named Aylo, which owns prominent platforms such as Pornhub, YouPorn, and Redtube, has announced that it will restrict access for new users in the UK. This action follows the implementation of the Online Safety Act (OSA), aimed at improving age verification for explicit content.
Aylo’s Restrictions and OSA Compliance
From February 2, new UK users will be unable to create accounts on Aylo’s websites. However, existing users who have completed age verification will retain their access. This shift is part of broader efforts to prevent minors from encountering adult material online.
Overview of the Online Safety Act
The Online Safety Act was amended in July 2025 to enforce stricter age verification for adult websites. Despite these measures, studies reveal that nearly 50% of adult users still visit unverified sites. A poll by the Lucy Faithfull Foundation found that 45% of respondents, out of 1,469 surveyed, had bypassed age verification requirements to avoid disclosing personal information.
Concerns Raised by Aylo
Alex Kekesi, Aylo’s vice president of brand and community, expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the OSA. She argued that the legislation may make the internet less secure for both minors and adults. Kekesi warned that responsible platforms might inadvertently push users toward unregulated and potentially risky websites.
Impact on User Behavior
Alongside Aylo’s restrictions, there is a worrying trend of users gravitating towards sites lacking proper age verification and moderation. This shift increases exposure to illegal content, raising significant safety concerns.
Status of Age Verification Among Major Platforms
As of January 27, 2026, 68 of the top 100 pornography services in the UK have implemented age verification measures. Still, many users are actively looking for alternatives that do not enforce these checks.
Ofcom’s Role and Actions
Ofcom, the regulator responsible for enforcing the OSA, announced that service providers must either comply with age verification requirements or restrict access to UK users. The organization is currently investigating 80 sites that have not complied with the new regulations, which could lead to substantial fines for violators.
Conclusion
The upcoming changes on February 2, 2026, highlight continuing challenges within the adult content industry in relation to the Online Safety Act. While initiatives have been established, concerns about their effectiveness and unintended ramifications persist.
