A government-commissioned review in the UK is set to recommend spot-checks on pornography websites and social media platforms to monitor and reduce harmful content. According to The Times UK, the proposal suggests introducing a certification system that would grant “good practice” accreditations to sites that comply with content safety standards.
Currently, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) is responsible for licensing pornographic videos sold in physical outlets, such as sex shops. However, it holds no authority over online material. Under the proposed framework, the BBFC would expand its role, auditing major pornography sites and social media platforms to ensure they effectively remove illegal, harmful, or abusive content.
The recommendations stem from a task force review on the rise of so-called “extreme porn” online. The review highlights growing concerns over the link between exposure to extreme pornographic material and the development of harmful sexual attitudes and behaviors in real life. The findings suggest that consuming such content can lead to objectification of women and a higher acceptance of sexual aggression toward them.
Websites that successfully pass these audits could receive official accreditation, while those that fail to comply with the rules could face sanctions from telecoms regulator Ofcom under the Online Harms Act. These sanctions may include restrictions on advertising, payment services, or other business operations.
The review also draws on international research, including a U.S. study that found frequent pornography consumption among men was associated with a greater likelihood of attempting or expressing interest in trying sexual behaviors seen in adult films.
Sources close to the review indicated that the recommendations aim to limit the availability of harmful material on mainstream platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit. The report advises that Ofcom should be prepared to use its full regulatory powers to disrupt the business models of non-compliant sites.
A government source praised the work of the review team, led by Conservative peer Baroness Gabrielle Louise Bertin, stating, “This is an important piece of work, and we will be responding to its recommendations in detail.”
The review emphasizes that while the Online Safety Act offers some protection—especially for minors accessing explicit material—further action is needed to address the pervasive nature of harmful online pornography.
“The scale, nature, and impact of online pornography have transformed dramatically,” a source close to the review noted. “Content that would be illegal offline is still rampant online, and this disparity needs to be addressed urgently.”
The full report is expected to be published later this week.
