PRETORIA, South Africa – Adult website operators in South Africa, take note: Your days are numbered. The regulating body for the dissemination of media throughout South Africa, The Film and Publications Board (FPB), ruled that adult website operators must stop distributing adult content online by Dec. 31.
“Distribution of adult material on the Internet is in contravention with Section 24 of the Films and Publications Act,” a press statement issued by the FPB said. “Anyone distributing after the above set date will be punished accordingly as stipulated in the act.”
According to the FPB, the ruling follows a public outcry.
“In view of a number of complaints from the public regarding the distribution and exhibition of materials containing depictions, descriptions, or sequences of sexual conduct via the Internet, by mail-order, and through mobile cellular phones, the board advises the South African Police Services to investigate and charge any person using above-mentioned media for distribution of films, interactive computer games, or publications which have either not been classified by the board or classified ‘XX’ or ‘X18’,” the press statement said.
Fans of adult content take heart: South Africa will continue to allow brick-and-mortar retailers to distribute adult content directly to adults as long as the material is placed in a clearly marked area, away from the view of minors. Additionally, retail shop owners must apply and pay for a license to sell adult material.
