Searches for VPNs following the UK’s introduction of age restrictions for porn have skyrocketed by 112%.
The new laws, which came into force on Friday, require websites hosting adult content to age verify their visitors. This aims to prevent under-18s from viewing harmful content online.
VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, allow users to encrypt their connection, to trick websites into thinking they’re accessing their content from abroad, bypassing the regulation.
Experts at Talking Kinky revealed that searches were at their highest at 2am, early Friday morning.
Broken down further, Talking Kinky discovered:
- Wales led the way with a whopping 589% surge.
- Northern Ireland followed up with a 331% spike.
- Scotland came next with a 160% increase.
- England saw the smallest rise at 99%.
As the laws aim to prevent under-18s from viewing harmful content, Tom and Isabelle, sexual health experts from Talking Kinky, advised parents on effectively approaching conversations about sex education with their children:
Open, honest conversations
Isabelle said: “Current sex education often leaves out crucial elements, like pleasure and emotional connections. It’s like giving teenagers a cookbook with no recipes.
“Parents should fill these gaps by having open, honest conversations about the realities of sex beyond just anatomy and safety.”
Abstinence-only messages aren’t effective
Tom stated: “Abstinence-only messages aren’t effective. Young people will still explore sexuality, but without comprehensive education, they’re less equipped to do so safely and confidently.
“Parents can bridge this gap by providing open, fact-based information.”
Don’t just focus on risk avoidance
Isabelle advised: “Pleasure should absolutely be part of the conversation. Sex education must highlight joy, exploration, and connection, not just risk avoidance.
“When parents talk openly about pleasure, teens are less likely to turn to unreliable sources to answer crucial questions.”
