The United Kingdom has officially implemented strict age-verification rules for adult websites, requiring users to prove they are over 18 by providing personal ID or credit card details. The new regulation, introduced under Ofcom’s directive, is designed to protect minors from accessing explicit content online.
However, the rollout has sparked major concerns over privacy and cybersecurity. Experts warn that the lack of standardized safeguards for data collection could leave users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft, and data misuse.
Cybersecurity specialist Jake Moore of ESET emphasized that without clear implementation guidelines, these verification systems may become prime targets for scammers and cybercriminals.
Users Turn to VPNs to Bypass New Restrictions
In response to the new law, many UK users have begun turning to VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to circumvent the restrictions. VPN providers report a notable increase in downloads from the UK since the age-check requirement took effect.
VPNs conceal user locations and allow access to blocked websites, but free VPN services pose significant risks. Experts from Mozilla and the EC-Council caution that some free VPNs lack strong encryption and may log or sell users’ browsing history to third parties.
Cybersecurity experts recommend users choose trusted, paid VPN services to ensure better privacy protection and avoid potential exposure to malware, phishing, and data leaks.
A Balancing Act Between Safety and Privacy
While the goal of the regulation is to shield children from harmful online content, critics argue that the government must also address the privacy implications and risks faced by adult users.
Until proper safeguards are enforced, cybersecurity professionals advise the public to exercise caution and avoid sharing sensitive information unless they fully understand the potential risks involved.
