Aylo, the parent company of Pornhub.com, has announced updates to its co-performer tagging and identity verification protocols for content creators. These changes aim to address concerns about proof of consent and verification for all individuals featured in content on the platform.
Starting September 3, 2024, all performers and co-performers will be required to provide identification and proof of consent for every performer involved in any scene or video uploaded to the site. The new policies include a mandatory release form for co-performers who do not already have one on file, or completion of the verification process using a digital e-signature. Missing IDs and consent forms will delay new video uploads and may impact monthly payouts. Since January 2024, Pornhub has required both performers in a video to submit identification and performer releases.
According to the Pornhub blog, “When you upload a new video that features a co-performer who only has ID approval, you will be required to upload a release form before the video can be published.” Performers can manage this by logging into their accounts, navigating to the model dashboard, and using the co-performers tab in core settings. This feature allows creators to check which co-performers are missing consent forms and add the necessary documentation.
There are two methods for verification: uploading signed release forms for review by the trust and safety team or using an e-signature link tool. For the first option, performers download and submit release form templates, which are then reviewed. For the second option, performers send an e-signature link to verify government IDs, perform a live face scan, and digitally sign the release form. This link can be sent via email.
The co-performer tagging system has also been revamped. Creators can now send collaboration requests to models appearing in their content to confirm their consent. This system is available to all verified model program members and will help identify collaborating performers in account settings.
The blog further states, “Collaboration requests must be accepted by the other party to confirm their consent.”
Pornhub’s new policies directly respond to criticism from anti-pornography groups, such as Sound Investigations, a controversial pressure group that claims the site has failed to protect content creators in its model program.
Sound Investigations, a spin-off of the far-right Project Veritas, previously targeted Pornhub and Aylo by releasing heavily-edited undercover videos. Among their accusations was that Pornhub does not verify the identity of "faceless" performers, alleging this creates a "predator loophole."
These claims led to a joint letter from 26 Republican attorneys general to Aylo, asking the company to address this alleged loophole. However, Aylo had already addressed these concerns independently, without pressure from these groups.
During a virtual press day in March 2024, Aylo, alongside its ownership group Ethical Capital Partners (ECP), responded to these accusations. Solomon Friedman, ECP partner and vice president of compliance, clarified that performers who appear faceless in their videos undergo the same level of moderation as those who show their faces.
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