UK's Porn Age Verification Easily Bypassed with VPNs

The UK's new age verification requirement for pornographic websites is easily circumvented using VPNs. While platforms are employing methods like credit card verification, ID uploads, and facial age estimation, a simple VPN change of IP address bypasses these measures. Ofcom, the regulator, prohibits platforms from encouraging VPN use and advises parents to block VPN access for children, but soaring search interest in 'VPN' highlights the measure's ineffectiveness. While the need to restrict minors' access to adult content is valid, the current implementation compromises user privacy by demanding sensitive information, sparking widespread criticism.