US states push age verification laws leading to PornHub bans and privacy concerns

Nearly one-third of U.S. states have enacted laws requiring age verification for access to pornographic websites, leading to a ban on PornHub in those areas. The site’s owner, Aylo, cites privacy concerns as the reason for halting operations. Supporters argue these laws protect children from harmful content, while critics claim they are ineffective and infringe on privacy. The laws allow civil lawsuits against sites that fail to verify users' ages, but many users resist participating in age checks. Age verification methods remain controversial, with some advocating for less intrusive solutions. Critics fear these laws may suppress the adult industry and infringe on free speech, reflecting broader cultural tensions in the U.S.