European Commission Investigates StripChat Under Digital Services Act
The European Commission has recently initiated an inquiry into StripChat, a major entity in the adult entertainment industry, targeting its practices regarding user safety and content regulation. This investigation also encompasses other prominent platforms like Pornhub and XVideos, focusing on their compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).
User Safety and Age Verification Measures
Central to the Commission's concerns is the adequacy of age verification processes used by these platforms. Current methods, which typically involve a simple checkbox to confirm age, are being scrutinized for their effectiveness in preventing minors from accessing adult content. The investigation aims to ensure that these sites implement more robust procedures to safeguard against underage access.
Compliance with the Digital Services Act
StripChat, along with the other targeted platforms, falls under the category of "very large online platforms" defined by the DSA, due to their extensive user base—each boasting around 45 million monthly visitors. This classification subjects them to stringent regulations designed to uphold digital safety and accountability. The European Commission is examining how these platforms align their internal policies with DSA requirements, specifically regarding the setup of independent, authoritative internal teams that have direct access to the management to address risks effectively.
Focus on Gender-Based Violence and Illegal Content
The scope of the inquiry also extends to the platforms' measures to prevent gender-based violence and the spread of illegal content like child sexual abuse material, nonconsensual imagery, and deepfake pornography. These aspects highlight a broader regulatory effort to ensure digital spaces respect privacy, dignity, and prevent harmful content.
Possible Outcomes and Industry Impact
The outcomes of this inquiry could lead to significant changes in the operations of online adult platforms under European jurisdiction. Tighter regulations and the enforcement of advanced safety measures could be on the horizon, potentially setting new industry standards that prioritize user protection and content management.
Challenges to the DSA Classification
Pornhub, one of the platforms involved, has earlier contested its classification under the DSA. The platform argued that its user base does not reach the threshold of 45 million monthly users, challenging the basis of its inclusion under stringent regulatory measures. The response from these platforms to the European Commission's inquiry will be crucial in shaping future policies and practices in the digital arena.
