Lecture Notes: OnlyFans Overview

Introduction

• OnlyFans is an internet content subscription service based in London, England.
• Known for user-generated content monetized via subscriptions, tips, and pay-per-view.
• Hosts a variety of creators, including sex workers, athletes, musicians, and comedians.
• Creators earn 80% of subscription fees.
• Launched a safe-for-work streaming platform, OFTV, in 2021.

Company Overview

• Private company founded in 2016 by Tim Stokely in London.
• Initially banned explicit content but lifted the ban by 2017.
• Known for significant growth during COVID-19 pandemic.
• As of 2023, 3 million creators and 220 million users.
• Revenue of $1.3 billion in 2023.
• Employs ~1,000 people, focusing largely on content moderation.

Key Figures

• Founder: Tim Stokely; CEO: Keily Blair.
• Acquired by Leonid Radvinsky, owner of MyFreeCams, who holds 75% ownership.
• Recognized as one of the most influential and fastest-growing companies by Time and Financial Times.

Growth and Influence

• COVID-19 pandemic accelerated user growth.
• Mention by Beyonc in "Savage" remix increased popularity.
• Celebrities like Cardi B and media companies joined the platform.

Challenges and Controversies

Restrictions on Pornographic Creators

• Attempted ban on explicit content in 2021 due to financial institution pressures.
• Reversed decision due to backlash from creators and users.

Legal and Ethical Issues

• Concerns regarding child sexual abuse material circulation.
• Investigations and lawsuits related to content moderation failures.
• Allegations of bribery involving Meta.

Safety and Security

• Criticized for inadequate protection against child exploitation.
• Efforts include third-party verification tools and transparency reports.
• Partnered with organizations to combat non-consensual image sharing.

Non-Pornographic Content

• Launched creative fund and OFTV for safe-for-work content.
• Attracted diverse creators, including musicians and reality TV shows.

Individual Creators

• Creators include Bella Thorne, Bhad Bhabie, and Amouranth.
• Notable for high earnings and significant platform impact.

Conclusion

• OnlyFans has significantly shaped the creator economy, with controversies surrounding its content policies and safety protocols.
• Despite challenges, continues to be a major platform for diverse content creation.