UK newsstands to sell "porn passes" to verify user age
What's the story
A new UK legislation has proposed that users prove they're above the legal age of 18 before accessing adult websites by buying a "porn pass" from local newsstands. This comes under Britain's Digital Economy Act 2017, under which stricter laws are being formulated regarding access to pornographic websites. This age verification law was to be implemented in April but has been postponed to year-end.
Problem
Verifying user age through credit cards not feasible for all
According to reports, porn websites have an option of verifying user age through credit cards since a person needs to be over the age of 18 to access any kind of credit in the UK. However, around 40% of Brits don't hold a credit card. About 1.6 million working adults in the country lack access to mainstream banking services.
Solution
Enter porn passes
As a workaround, regulators suggested that adults purchase porn passes from high-street stores. They will be asked to prove their identity through a driving license or a passport, post which they'll be given a 16-digit code. This code has to be entered on X-rated websites to gain access to them. The porn passes will cost around £10 (roughly Rs. 900).
Anonymous Option
No need to enter personal information into an online database
This will solve the problem of age verification and also allow users to be anonymous since they won't have to enter their personal details like name, age, address, and passport or credit card details on porn websites. It also eradicates the possibility of adult websites leaking user data. Notably, the passes will also be applicable while buying alcohol and knives online in the UK.
Information
Strict data protection laws
Users who fail to comply with the regulations will have to face stiff penalties. Trying to access adult content without verifying your age can lead to being blocked by internet service providers and fines of up to £250,000 (Rs. 22 lakh).