Downloads of virtual private network apps have surged in Australia after several major adult websites began restricting access for Australian users under new online safety rules introduced this week.
The spike in downloads followed the rollout of national regulations requiring adult platforms to implement stronger age-verification systems to prevent minors from accessing explicit content online.
Several websites operated by the global adult entertainment company Aylo – including RedTube, YouPorn and Tube8 – have begun blocking new Australian users.
Visitors attempting to access the sites from an Australian IP address are shown a notice stating the platform is “not currently accepting new account registrations in your region.”
Pornhub changes access for Australian users
The restrictions expanded on Monday when Pornhub, the world’s largest pornography website and also owned by Aylo, altered the way its site appears for Australian visitors.
Users accessing the homepage from Australia without logging into an account are now shown safe-for-work content only, rather than explicit videos typically displayed on the platform.
The changes coincide with the introduction of new online safety codes overseen by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, which aim to enforce stricter safeguards preventing children from viewing adult material.
VPN downloads surge
The new restrictions have coincided with a sharp rise in downloads of virtual private network (VPN) applications in Australia.
VPN services allow internet users to route their online activity through servers in other countries, masking their real location.
By appearing to browse from outside Australia, users may still be able to access websites that have restricted Australian traffic.
Technology analysts say the spike in VPN downloads reflects a common pattern whenever regional content restrictions are introduced online.
Industry response to new safety rules
Australia’s online safety reforms require adult platforms to adopt robust age-verification technology, such as identity checks or third-party verification tools.
However, some adult websites have chosen to restrict access temporarily rather than immediately implementing verification systems.
The move highlights the tension between government attempts to regulate online safety and the ability of internet users to circumvent geographic restrictions through widely available technologies.
Officials have said the new safety rules are intended to reduce the risk of minors encountering explicit material online, while technology companies and civil liberties advocates continue to debate the practical implications of enforcement.
