Regulators have imposed a £1.35 million fine on adult content provider 8579 LLC for inadequate age verification on its websites. The penalty marks the largest under the Online Safety Act to date, targeting failures to ensure UK visitors are over 18 and block child access to explicit material.
Investigation and Violations
Authorities launched an inquiry into 8579 LLC shortly after age verification rules activated in July 2025. The company neglected robust checks on most sites from July 25 to at least November 19, 2025. An additional £50,000 fine applies for ignoring information requests.
8579 LLC must now deploy effective age verification on its final non-compliant site by 17:00 GMT Monday, facing £1,000 daily penalties for delays. It also faces requirements to submit a full list of operated sites, with £250 daily fines for non-compliance.
Official Statements
George Lusty, Ofcom’s director of enforcement, emphasized the need for strong protections. “Adult sites must deploy robust age checks to shield UK children from pornography,” he stated. “Failures or ignored legal requests will result in fines.”
Wider Enforcement Efforts
Regulators continue probing multiple adult sites for compliance gaps. In December, AVS Group Ltd received a £1 million fine for ongoing violations but later introduced checks on select platforms.
On February 2, Pornhub restricted UK access entirely. Parent firm Aylo criticized the Online Safety Act, claiming it fails to protect minors and drives users to unregulated sites.
The Act mandates platforms to curb harmful content for youth, including pornography, suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders, under Ofcom oversight.
