OnlyFans has been described as the “largest pimping empire in the world” and a platform for child sexual exploitation, according to concerned Members of Parliament. Labour MP Joani Reid criticized the UK-based website for hosting millions of pornographic videos, labeling it as a promoter of “commercialized abuse packaged and marketed as entertainment.” Reid emphasized that OnlyFans is not a safe space for consenting adults to express themselves freely, citing survivor testimonies that highlight the platform’s exploitation of trauma.
During a debate in Westminster Hall, Reid pointed out that popular OnlyFans personalities like Bonnie Blue do not represent the experiences of most women using the platform. OnlyFans, in response, stated that it maintains strict safety measures. Reid challenged supporters of successful figures on the platform, questioning their willingness to overlook the exploitation and abuse suffered by many others for the profit of a select few.
Home Office minister Jess Phillips assured that the government would investigate concerns surrounding OnlyFans. Reid highlighted how predators target vulnerable women while company executives profit significantly. She stressed that the harm caused by the platform extends beyond direct exploitation, influencing societal attitudes and behaviors.
Reid called for more stringent measures to be enforced on OnlyFans, emphasizing the need to address violence and exploitation openly. She emphasized that pornography and prostitution are forms of abuse that should not be glamorized. Reid insisted that OnlyFans must verify the age and consent of all its creators and allow independent child protection agencies access to its content.
Addressing Reid’s concerns, Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips acknowledged the need to delve deeper into the platform’s operations and ensure transparency. The government remains committed to combating online sexual exploitation and will take necessary action to hold online companies accountable for eradicating exploitation from their platforms.
An OnlyFans spokesperson reiterated the platform’s commitment to verifying the age, identity, and consent of all creators before content is posted. The spokesperson emphasized that OnlyFans is regulated by Ofcom and upholds rigorous safety protocols as a UK-based platform.
