Children in the UK will soon be better protected from viewing pornography – or, at least that’s the theory.
From 25 July, a new regulation in the UK will force adult websites to enact more robust age verification measures. Until now, a user simply had to click a button affirming they are over 18 to access some sites but the new regulation means people may have to send a photograph of their ID, credit card details or a photograph of themselves. Campaigners call these measures “age gates”.
But is verification a good idea, or could it have even darker consequences? BBC InDepth invited three people with strong views on this issue to discuss it further. Here is a shortened version of their debate, which delves into their different perspectives – and their fears.