Why Texas’ Age Verification Law Is Dangerous for Creators, Fans, and Free Speech

Blog Post Written By: Melrose Michaels

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The new wave of age verification laws may be marketed as a way to protect minors, but beneath the surface, they threaten privacy, creators' livelihoods, and free speech. Here’s what every creator needs to know, and what you can do about it.

Understanding the New Age Verification Law

Recently, the Supreme Court upheld a Texas law requiring adult content sites to check IDs before allowing fans access. While on the surface, this might sound like a move to protect kids on the internet, the reality is far more complicated and troubling. As an adult creator and advocate, I want to break down exactly what this law is, why it’s problematic, and how it impacts our businesses in ways that go far beyond simple age checks.

Why Age Verification Is Bad Policy

Let’s start with the basics: requiring everyone to upload their government ID and scan their face just to watch adult content is not only intrusive but opens a huge can of worms for privacy and security. Most people hear “age verification” and think, “Of course, we don’t want minors on these sites,” and I agree! But the way this law attempts to solve that problem is deeply flawed.

These third-party platforms will compare your facial scan and ID across databases, banks, employers, and government agencies, places you probably don’t want associated with your adult site browsing. Worse, any system storing sensitive data is a ripe target for hacks, identity theft, extortion, or even phishing scams that record you through your webcam after collecting your info. We’re talking about opening the door to a host of risks for everyday adults just trying to access content on legal platforms.

Parental controls, device locks, and ISP-level filters are far more effective tools for preventing minors from accessing adult material. Forcing everyone to register with an ID? That’s just bad internet policy and bad precedent.

The Real-World Impact on Adult Platforms and Creators

So what does this Supreme Court decision actually mean? In straightforward terms: chaos for the adult industry. Large tube sites and small indie platforms alike will be forced to implement pricey, complicated verification tech. Many just won’t survive the cost. Others will pass the expense onto creators or fans.

Sites like Pornhub have already started geo-blocking access in states enforcing similar laws. That means fans, creators, and traffic are all locked out. The direct consequences? Less visibility, fewer fans, and a serious blow to creator income.

If you’re an independent creator relying on traffic from these platforms, be warned: your numbers could start dropping as more states follow Texas’ lead. This is especially crucial if you use tube sites, cam platforms, or any model that depends on top-of-funnel traffic from web visitors.

Ugly Side Effects: Privacy, Piracy, and Skewed Analytics

Beyond traffic losses, there are sneaky side effects creators need to prepare for:

1. Skewed Analytics: As age verification laws spread, more US users will shield their location with VPNs. Your traffic and sales stats will suddenly misrepresent where your fans actually come from. That’s a nightmare for business planning, marketing, and understanding your real audience.

2. Exploding Piracy: Locked out of ethical, verified sites, fans will inevitably turn to pirate sites, many based overseas, far from any US regulation. These platforms don’t check performer ages, consent, or block illegal content. Worse, they’re more likely to spread your material without your permission or revenue share, as pirates take advantage of fans searching for your content without barriers.

3. Privacy Risks: Handing over government ID and face scans to third parties is a direct route to hacks, scams, and surveillance. It’s not just a hassle, it’s a minefield for anyone who values their privacy.

How Creators Can Prepare and Fight Back

If all this sounds overwhelming, don’t panic, you’re not helpless. Here are my top recommendations for creators facing the fallout:

• Rethink Your Traffic Strategy: If you rely on cam sites or tube sites for exposure, start diversifying your sales funnel. Build direct connections with your fans off-platform and invest in your own website and email lists.

• Join the Fight: Get involved with advocacy groups like the Free Speech Coalition. They’re on the front lines, challenging these laws and supporting our rights.

• Educate Your Fans: Share content like this with your community. Let them know why ID checks aren’t just inconvenient, they’re dangerous.

Looking to the Future

Is it a tough time for creators? Absolutely. But I refuse to feel hopeless. The creator economy is booming, and as we gain influence and resources, we can force the change we need. Let’s stay informed, stay resilient, and keep pushing for a world where privacy and free expression are protected.

Thanks for reading, and for daring to build a business that others might wish didn’t exist. Together, we’ll keep sounding the alarm and shaping a better future for all creators.

PS: Want the full legal breakdown from an expert? Watch my in-depth interview with attorney Corey Silverstein HERE