OnlyFans Bans Explicit Content: What You Need to Know

OnlyFans to Prohibit Explicit Content Starting October

A significant shift is occurring at OnlyFans, as the platform has declared its intention to disallow sexually explicit material beginning in October. While not initially conceived as a hub for adult content, it has undeniably become its most prominent application. However, mounting pressure originating from “banking partners and payout providers” necessitates a departure from the adult entertainment sphere, with a future focus exclusively on Safe For Work (SFW) content.

Confirmation of the Policy Change

The announcement, initially reported by Bloomberg, received official confirmation from the company through a formal statement.

OnlyFans did not provide a response to inquiries from TechCrunch regarding its precise definition of sexually explicit content or the anticipated financial repercussions of this decision.

OnlyFans as a Creator Platform

The OnlyFans platform has emerged as the leading standard for independent adult content creators. Its popularity surged during the pandemic, as disruptions impacted traditional operations within the adult industry.

It has proven to be an invaluable resource for numerous creators, both established professionals and those aspiring to build a following, enabling them to directly monetize their work with fans, bypassing the often-exploitative practices of conventional adult industry businesses.

Risks Associated with Online Sex Work

Sex work conducted online inherently carries risks. Platforms must consistently monitor for illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, harmful content like revenge porn and unauthorized leaks, and common internet security threats such as piracy.

Challenges in Scaling Adult Content Platforms

Organizations operating in this space often encounter difficulties in scaling their operations. Investors and banks frequently exhibit reluctance towards the industry, categorizing it as a “vice,” similar to the obstacles faced by cannabis and sex toy companies.

Resistance from financial institutions and payment processors can effectively jeopardize an entire business model.

Pressure from Financial Institutions

OnlyFans has openly acknowledged that it is abandoning adult content due to this very type of pressure. Despite the recent launch and promotion of its OFTV app – a SFW alternative to the main OnlyFans site – and the presence of many non-explicit content creators, this change represents a substantial setback for both the sex work industry and the company itself. Creators were not given advance notice of this policy shift.

Creator Reactions to the Announcement

“This will devastate the primary income source for many individuals, undermining the foundation of their entire business,” stated Tristan West, known as dreamboytristan, a prominent adult content creator on OnlyFans. “Many of us, myself included, must now dedicate significant effort to securing our businesses, transferring our assets, and migrating our content to another platform. While not catastrophic, this is a major impediment.”

West highlighted that alternative platforms are exploring ways to monetize adult content, citing examples like Twitter’s paid subscriptions and PornHub’s development of direct monetization options. However, OnlyFans possesses considerable influence and must facilitate a smooth transition for its creators.

Demands from Creators

“I believe they should take the necessary steps – it’s unusual that they haven’t engaged with us in any way,” West commented. “Providing a straightforward option to download all content on OnlyFans – representing a creator’s asset and business – is the absolute minimum they could do.”

The Future of OnlyFans

The viability of OnlyFans in any recognizable form following this transition is questionable. Abandoning its most profitable and dedicated customer base may erode trust, leading others to avoid a platform that failed to support its creators. Investors, previously hesitant about investing in a sex-related product, may now be wary of supporting a failing venture. The previously estimated $1 billion valuation may now be unattainable.

Potential Solutions: Cryptocurrency

A frequently suggested solution within the tech community is to operate OnlyFans, or a similar platform, using cryptocurrencies, which generally are not subject to the same restrictions. This could represent a path forward for a new platform, but may be too late for OnlyFans to adapt.

Opportunity for New Platforms

“Fortunately, we have a few months,” West said. “OnlyFans was the dominant platform in this market, but they are not the only option. This presents an opportunity for another entity to emerge and provide better support for sex workers and online creators.”