The Digital Services Act (DSA) aims to create a safer online environment for minors. In this context, the Commission has opened formal proceedings against Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos for suspected DSA violations.

In parallel, Member States are taking coordinated actions against smaller pornographic platforms through the European Board for Digital Services. These actions support the Commissions efforts to protect minors from harmful content on both large and smaller platforms.

Investigations into Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos

The investigations focus on the lack of effective age verification and other measures to ensure the privacy and safety of minors.

• Appropriate measures to ensure a high level of privacy and safety for minors, particularly through age verification.
• Risk assessment and measures to protect the rights of the child and user well-being.

Protecting young users is a priority under the DSA. Platforms must prioritize childrens rights in their services. Non-compliance can lead to DSA violations.

Additionally, the Commission announces the termination of Stripchats designation as a Very Large Online Platform. Stripchat remains obliged to protect minors on their service.

Coordinated action

Member States have also launched a coordinated action to protect minors from pornographic content on smaller platforms.

Next Steps

The Commission will now conduct an in-depth investigation and gather evidence.

Background

Based on previous research, the Commission has opened formal proceedings. A public consultation on guidelines for protecting minors online has also been launched.

The Commission is developing an age verification app, available by summer 2025.