EU tightens restrictions for three top adult websites under new content regulations

The European Union (EU) has expanded its list of companies subject to stringent regulations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), by including adult content platforms Pornhub, Stripchat, and XVideos to it.

The DSA mandates companies to implement risk management, undergo external auditing, and share data with authorities and researchers.

Thierry Breton, the EU's industry chief, emphasised the significance of creating a safer online environment for children, stating, "Pornhub, Stripchat, and XVideos meet the user thresholds to fall under stricter #DSA obligations."

Companies falling under the DSA regulations must address disinformation, enhance user protection and choice, and ensure stronger safeguards for children, facing potential fines of up to 6% of their global turnover.

While major tech companies were previously designated, the inclusion of adult content platforms demonstrates the DSA's broad reach. Pornhub, however, reported 33 million average monthly users, below the 45-million threshold for very large online platforms.

The designation considers not only self-reported user numbers but also information from third parties or alternative sources.

XVideos, claiming 160 million users in the EU, and Stripchat, boasting over 500 million global users, are among the newly designated companies.

Within four months, these platforms must implement measures to protect users, especially minors, and address any systemic risks associated with their services, according to the Commission's statement.