Overview of Allegations Against Social Media Platform Passes
Lucy Guo, founder of the social media platform Passes, is currently embroiled in a significant lawsuit alleging that her company allowed the distribution of child pornography, involving minors in the creation of sexually explicit content. Passes, known for its non-nudity policy similar to OnlyFans, is accused of overlooking its protective measures for underage users.
Details of the Lawsuit Facing Passes
The lawsuit details that between July and September of the previous year, Passes employees Alec Celestin and Lani Ginoza specifically directed a 17-year-old model, Alice Rosenblum, to produce sexually explicit material. Despite being aware of Rosenblum's age, it is alleged that both the platform and founder Lucy Guo took no steps to prevent the storage and distribution of this content through their system, The Vault.
Platform's Stance on Content and Protection of Minors
Despite its marketing as a promoter of entrepreneurship for creators, Passes has positioned itself strongly against explicit adult content and claims to focus on the protection of minors. The platform initially allowed creators aged 15 to 17 under strict conditions that included parental consent, but these regulations were purportedly removed from the site's terms sometime around late February.
Passes and Its Community
Passes has attracted over 500,000 subscribers and features content from 1,000 creators, including high-profile figures such as actress Bella Thorne, NBA star Shaquille O'Neal, and gymnast Livvy Dunne. The platform's community growth is notable, with over $49 million raised from investors including Jake Paul’s Anti Fund, Paris Hilton, and Menlo Ventures.
Additional Legal Challenges and Company Response
In addition to the current allegations, Passes and Lucy Guo also faced a lawsuit in January 2024 by Fanfix, accusing them of conspiring to misuse confidential information for recruiting creators. Contrary to claims, Guo has maintained that Alec Celestin was not an official agent or employee of Passes. Both Celestin and former director of talent Lani Ginoza have not been available to respond to the allegations.
Founder's Statement on the Allegation
Lucy Guo, a notable former young programmer and recipient of the $100,000 Thiel Fellowship, has strongly denied the lawsuit's claims. She emphasizes that the lawsuit is without merit and denies any direct dealings with the plaintiff. Guo assures that all reports of inappropriate activity were promptly addressed by Passes and remains confident that further investigations will clear any allegations against her and the company.
