Since 2025, pornographic sites available in France must check that visitors are adults, using privacy-preserving methods. Here is what the law says, how it works in practice and what it changes for you.
Conteúdos
What the law says
- May 2024: the SREN law gives the French regulator Arcom the power to require age verification from publishers of pornographic content.
- October 2024: Arcom publishes its technical standard.
- 2025: the obligation applies first to sites established in France (April), then to foreign sites available in France (June).
A simple “I am over 18” checkbox is no longer enough for these sites.
How double anonymity works
The idea: the site only learns that you are an adult, not who you are, and the verification provider knows who you are but not which site you visit. Verification goes through a third party (selfie age estimation, ID document, identity app…). The site must not keep identity data.
What happens to sites that do not comply?
After formal notice, Arcom can ask internet providers to block the site and search engines to delist it in France. Some major sites chose to make their service unavailable in France rather than add verification.
What about cam, dating and creator sites?
The rules target services giving access to pornographic content. Major cam and creator platforms are rolling out age verification for French visitors, so the flow can differ from one site to another. We update this guide as things change.
Our tips
- Prefer sites using a double-anonymity verifier: your identity is never linked to your browsing.
- Beware of fake verification pages asking for your card or an ID copy by email.
- Check our discretion index to see what will appear on your statement.
And on ALK?
ALK is an editorial guide with no explicit content, for adults only. We are rolling out age verification that meets Arcom’s double-anonymity standard for the visitors concerned.
Perguntas frequentes
Do I have to send my ID to the site?
No. With double anonymity, a third party checks your age; the site only receives a yes/no adult confirmation.
Do I need to verify at every visit?
It depends on the solution: some keep a proof of age on your device for a limited time.
Why are some sites no longer available in France?
Some publishers chose to suspend their service in France rather than add the required verification.
Are sites based in other EU countries covered?
Their situation has been debated at EU level; Arcom has nevertheless already sent formal notices to sites based in the EU.
