OnlyFans banning porn in attempt to attract more funding, will still allow nudity

OnlyFans, the subscription platform that allows content creators to be paid directly by their audience, is ditching what it's most famous for - sexually explicit content.

From October 1, the company is going to ban porn in an attempt to placate banks and other payment partners, according to the company.

But fans longing for naked delights needn't despair totally - creators will still be allowed to put up nude photos and videos, as long as they're consistent with OnlyFans' policies, it said.

What exactly that means remains unclear, with OnlyFans saying it will provide more guidance on its new policy "at a later date".

The move comes as the company attempts to secure financing from outside investors to ensure its long-term sustainability, it said.

The platform has more than two million creators providing content to more than 130 million users - with many of the top creators selling explicit photos and videos.

OnlyFans takes 20 percent of the revenue, according to Bloomberg. There was more than US$2 billion of sales last year, with that amount set to double in 2021.

The porn ban has been criticised by social media users, with one comparing it to KFC banishing chicken.

One sex worker said the move was "devastating" for those forced online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while others pointed out the platform was happy to build its reputation and wealth on sex workers before ditching them.

"OnlyFans catered their platform almost exclusively to sex workers, built their wealth and popularity off the backs of sex workers, and within only a year ditched the creators who made their empire so they can cater to banks," said Twitter user sleepisocialist.

"Even if you don't use the site you should be pissed."

Earlier this week OnlyFans announced the wide launch of the OFTV app, a video library initially soft-launched earlier this year.

"The app offers a library of more than 800 videos, including the original series Unlocked which features conversations with creators such as Mia Khalifa, Bella Thorne and Holly Madison," Bloomberg reported.

To ensure a wide distribution of the app on global platforms, and as part of its move away from explicit content, there is no nudity featured in the OFTV app.