French lawmakers have adopted measures against platforms such as OnlyFans

MPs in France’s National Assembly adopted on Tuesday, in parliamentary committees, an article from a bill against sexual violence targeting paid sexual-content platforms such as OnlyFans. The measure seeks to bring paid sexual acts conducted online within the scope of pimping and to penalize certain intermediaries, as well as users.

The text proposes creating a criminal offense for remotely purchasing sexual acts performed at the client’s request. Its sponsors argue that online platforms can become a gateway to prostitution in the physical world and criticize the lack of sufficient safeguards to protect young people and those involved.

The proposal has sparked intense debate among French MPs. Supporters believe the regulation is necessary to combat sexual exploitation. Opponents, however, warn that shutting down the platforms could push sex workers toward unregulated services or more dangerous in-person meetings.

The bill will continue through the parliamentary process, and the article could be amended before a final version is adopted.