Adult subscription and social sites

The way we use the internet has changed. In our current era (known as Web 2.0), we’re focused on connecting with other people and creating content — which is why apps like TikTok, Twitch, and Snapchat are so popular.

Our evolving internet’s also made it easier for some people to connect with one another, especially when the connection they’re looking for is hard to do or find offline.

For example, messaging apps have made it easier for people with social anxiety to connect with another person from behind a computer screen. People with disabilities or long-term chronic illnesses may also find it safer or easier to interact with others online. And if you’re LGBTQIA+, you might use social networking sites and community forum boards to affirm their identities with other members of their community, in order to feel less alone.

The internet’s focus on creating social experiences is present in new forms of adult entertainment, too. These days, subscriptions-based platforms like OnlyFans blur the lines between social networks and something else.

So, are subscription-based adult sites porn, or something else?

💡Did you know?

Producing content on sex sites for money is a form of sex work?

For more information on sex work check out this video

There are a lot of similarities in the motivations of adult streaming subscription sites (or webcam sites) and porn.

Adult streaming, webcamming and subscription sites share the same goal: to make money by catering to the fantasies of their audience. This means that a lot of the negative stereotypes we see in porn are also present in adult webcam streams.

The difference between porn and subscription streaming sites is that whereas porn producers create media that’s sold and watched later by an audience, on subscription sites, adult content streamers generally get the money directly, and stream live, meaning they can interact with their audience.

Because the adult content creator is being paid to interact sexually with the audience in real time, this is considered a form of sex work.

⚠️ Important!

When it comes to porn and webcam sites, creating and purchasing content is illegal if you are under 18 years old.

Personalities on subscription streaming sites often make money by making the audience feel like they have a relationship. However, the interactions you may have with personalities on these sites should not inform how your relationships work offline.

Exchanging money does not negate a sex worker’s right to set boundaries or withdraw consent. Negotiating consent and communicating what you both want is still necessary. When boundaries are crossed or consent is refused, this is sexual assault.

Remember ethical sex is about relationships built on an equal footing, with free and open communication, mutual pleasure and consent.

Sexy socials and ‘thirst traps’

You may have seen people on apps like TikTok or Instagram creating content that is sexy or designed to arouse. While these sites generally have a ban on porn, it’s still common to see sexually suggestive content made to turn people on. Sometimes this is just for fun, sometimes it’s to gain followers (and make money), and sometimes it’s a way to advertise more explicit content on adult subscription sites. Either way, this content often uses the same damaging or negative stereotypes that we see in porn . Again, understanding this can help stop it from unconsciously changing our views and attitudes.

Being safe online

Sometimes, interacting with others from behind a phone or computer screen can make us feel like we can share more about ourselves and learn a lot about another person more quickly than we ordinarily would in person.

It's therefore important to think of ways you can look after your safety online and be mindful of your boundaries in disclosing personal information, like:

• Your full name
• Physical address
• Phone number, email address, or other contact details
• The name of your friends or family members
• Health status
• Photos that identify your location
• Financial information

As always, remember that age of consent issues still apply here. If you or the other person you are interacting with online are under 18, and if you decide to sext or share any nudes, you might both be breaking the law.

For other tips on managing your safety online, you can visit eSafety .