OnlyFans reverses explicit content ban after outcry

OnlyFans has announced the reversal of its decision to ban sexually explicit content, a move that comes in response to a significant outcry from its creators and advocates for sex workers. The subscription-based platform stated in a prepared statement on Wednesday that the planned ban is no longer necessary due to assurances from its banking partners that it can accommodate all genres of creators. The company, however, declined to provide further details.

This reversal comes after OnlyFans had initially declared its intention to prohibit explicit content starting on October 1, attributing the policy change to the requirements of banks and payment processors. The company had asserted that these new rules were essential to comply with the demands of financial institutions and to secure the long-term sustainability of the platform.

OnlyFans has gained notoriety as a platform where sex workers can earn income in a safer environment and as a space for celebrities to engage with their fan base. The abrupt change in policy last week had left many of the site’s creators dismayed, with some considering migrating to alternative platforms.

The pandemic had driven a surge in new users, particularly sex workers who sought safer online avenues as in-person venues became less viable due to COVID-19. For some, OnlyFans has proven highly profitable, with collective earnings reaching $5 billion for its 2 million creators and 130 million users.

Notably, concerns persist regarding the reliability of this policy reversal, with some creators questioning the platform’s commitment to their safety and financial security. Lacy Lennon, a creator who reportedly earns substantial income from OnlyFans, remains skeptical, wondering about the long-term stability and safety of the platform.

In response to the initial ban announcement, several alternative platforms emerged, seeking to attract disgruntled OnlyFans creators. Rapper Tyga, for instance, announced plans for a new platform called myystar, emphasizing its commitment to unrestricted content.

Advocates for sex workers had strongly criticized OnlyFans’ proposed ban, expressing concerns that it could drive individuals towards more dangerous street-based sex work, thereby increasing the risk of exploitation and trafficking. They emphasized the importance of providing a safe virtual space for sex workers, particularly for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals.

The online pornography industry has been evolving amid concerns about sex trafficking and the exploitation of minors. Legislation passed in 2018, including the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act and the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act, aimed to combat sex trafficking online but also had unintended consequences, making sex work more perilous for many individuals.

Elected officials, too, had raised concerns about OnlyFans, prompting calls for a Justice Department investigation. Some critics argue that conservative and religious groups are using the pretext of combating sex trafficking and child pornography to restrict sexual content online.

OnlyFans’ CEO, Tim Stokely, attributed the planned ban to the refusal of banks like Bank of New York Mellon to work with the platform, citing the unique challenges faced by adult-content companies in dealing with financial institutions.

While the reversal of the explicit content ban is welcomed by many, there remains a sense of caution among creators and advocates, with a desire for more transparent and consultative policies in the future. The broader debate over the role and regulation of sexual content online continues to unfold.

It’s important to note that these developments are ongoing, and the situation may evolve further in the coming days and weeks.

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More about OnlyFans explicit content ban reversal

• OnlyFans Reverses Decision to Ban Explicit Content
• The Impact of Legislation on Online Sex Work
• Concerns and Critiques of Online Sex Work Regulations
• Financial Challenges Faced by Adult-Content Companies
• Advocacy for Sex Worker Rights
• Sex Trafficking Legislation and Its Impact