opinion

2257, .XXX, ICANN — WTF?

OK, don't even get me started. Last summer has been one of the most messed up and annoying times in the adult space, and if I hear one more friggin' acronym, I think I might just snap. For example, I spent a lot of time and money redoing all 60 sites to be 2257 compliant (which, let me tell you, did not come without resistance from the content providers, etc.) But by the time the sites were all done and all compliant, the lawyers told us, "Hey, don't worry, it's no big deal." No big deal? Well, maybe not to you guys since you have made more money this summer than ever before, but for me not to worry was not an option. My job is to protect my employees, not to mention the company, from being liable by not having our bases covered in regards to 2257. So we did it anyway.

And another thing; already we're into yet another 2257 extension with the Justice Department and "don't worry" is again the new catch phrase. I don't get it. Something that caused so much panic and grief is now something not to worry about?

Then there is .XXX. Panic hit the streets, mud was slung, people were freaking out (and rightly so). But once again, what happened to the hype? Or was it just another shotgun blast in the night not to be heard from again?

Don't get me wrong, I am not naive. I know these things are not going to just go away, but does everyone else? I know the DOJ is making it their mission to come after us, and why not? We make and distribute p-o-r-n-o-g-r-a-p-h-y. Oh my God, what bastards we are... Give me a friggin' break!

So, on that note, this is Bugbee and that's my rant, and GFY to all the haters!

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

From Compliance to Confidence: The Future of Safety in Adult Platforms

In numerous countries and U.S. states, laws now require platforms to prevent minors from accessing age-inappropriate material. But the need for safeguarding doesn’t end with age verification. Today’s online landscape also places adult companies at uniquely high risk for inadvertently facilitating exploitation, abuse or reputational harm, or of being accused of doing so.

Andy Lulham ·
opinion

What Adult Businesses Need to Know About Florida's Age Verification Law

The rise and proliferation of age verification laws has changed the landscape for the online adult industry. A recent and compelling example is the state of Florida, where Attorney General James Uthmeier has filed multiple complaints against major platforms as well as affiliates accused of violating the state’s AV law.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

Maintaining Brand Trust in the Face of Negative Press

Over the last year, several of our merchants have found themselves caught up in litigation over compliance with state age verification laws. Recently, Segpay itself was pulled into the spotlight, facing scrutiny over Florida’s AV statute, HB 3. These stories inevitably get picked up by both industry and mainstream news outlets.

Cathy Beardsley ·
opinion

How to Switch Payment Processors Without Disrupting Business

For many merchants, the idea of switching payment processors can feel pretty overwhelming. That’s understandable. After all, downtime can stall sales, recurring subscriptions can suddenly fail, or compliance gaps can put accounts at risk. Operating in a high-risk sector like the adult industry can further amplify the stress of transition.

Jonathan Corona ·
profile

WIA Profile: Katie

Katie is the ultimate girl’s girl. As community manager at Chaturbate, she answers DMs, remembers names, and shows up for creators and fellow businesswomen when it counts. She’s quick to credit the people around her, and careful to make space for others in every room she enters.

Women in Adult ·
opinion

How to Stay Legally Protected When Policies Get Outdated

The adult industry has long operated in a complex legal environment subject to rapid change. Now, a confluence of age verification laws, lawsuits, credit card processing and data privacy rules has created an urgent need for all industry participants — from major platforms to independent creators — to review and potentially overhaul their legal and operational policies.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

From Compliance Chaos to Crypto Clarity: Making the Case for Digital Payments in Adult

These are uncertain times for adult merchants. With compliance tightening and age verification mandates rising, the barrier to entry keeps getting higher.

Cathy Beardsley ·
opinion

Real-Time Insights to Streamline E-Payments and Stop Lost Sales

A slow checkout process is more than just annoying — it’s expensive. In a high-risk sector like the adult industry, even small delays or declined transactions can cost businesses thousands in lost revenue every month.

Jonathan Corona ·
profile

FSC's Valentine Leads Charge for Sex Worker Rights and Financial Access

Before ever stepping into a courtroom, Valentine already understood the power of presence. After all, they’ve shimmied on stages as a burlesque performer, consulted behind the scenes for creative businesses and moved through the adult industry not just as an advocate, but as a participant.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

Breaking Down HB 805 and How it Affects the Adult Industry

North Carolina House Bill 805 was enacted July 29, after the state legislature overrode Governor Josh Stein’s veto. The provisions that relate to the adult industry, imposing requirements for age verification, consent and content removal, are scheduled to become effective Dec. 1. Platforms have until then to update their policies and systems to comply with the new regulations.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
Show More