Is OnlyFans safe? Safety tips for users and creators
OnlyFans is a legitimate social media platform for sharing content with fans for a monthly fee. Regardless of whether you are a content creator or a fan, you should be aware of the security measures OnlyFans has in place and also the risks related to using the platform.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Is OnlyFans safe?
Yes, OnlyFans is mostly safe for both content creators and subscribers. OnlyFans provides an online platform for content creators to post videos, photos, and text and connect to their fans while it takes care of hosting and payment processing for a commission fee on the creators’ earnings. OnlyFans implements multiple security measures to protect its creators and fans.
There have been some legal concerns regarding the adult content available on OnlyFans, but if you comply with the platform’s terms of service and your local laws and regulations, OnlyFans is legal to use. In general, it is as safe as other social media websites as long as you practice common sense and maintain your online security habits.
Security measures on OnlyFans
This content sharing platform implements the following security measures to protect its users’ online data and online identity:
- Data encryption. OnlyFans protects your sensitive data by encrypting it.
- Two-step verification. In addition to entering your email address and a password, you can also receive a six digit verification code to your smartphone that you must provide each time you want to log in.
- Banking detail security. OnlyFans partners with a third-party payment processor that handles all payments on the platform. The website also uses a 3D secure checkout protocol that adds an additional layer of verification to your credit and debit card transactions, for example, a one-time password.
- Copyright protection. The platform offers a watermark to mark creators’ work in case it gets stolen and reused without consent.
What are the risks of OnlyFans?
Using OnlyFans poses several risks for content creators and subscribers. Potential copyright violation, data breaches, and various scams might cut your earnings or put your sensitive information in danger. So make sure to take all security precautions and be extra careful with strangers online.
Risks for content creators
OnlyFans content creators risk experiencing copyright infringement, financial fraud, and even stalking.
Copyright violations
There is always the risk of subscribers stealing a creators’ content and using it without permission, which is a direct violation of copyright laws and results in a loss of income for the creator. Copyright infringement might go as far as identity theft if, for example, someone steals your content from other social media sites and impersonates you on OnlyFans to earn money. This is why OnlyFans now requires content creators to verify their identity when setting up an account.
Promoter scams
Many creators who are starting out on OnlyFans turn to promoters for help grow their account. Unfortunately, there are many fake promoters who simply take off with your money without providing any services. Do a thorough background check of the person or the agency you are thinking of hiring and don’t trust random people who contact you on social media to offer their assistance.
Chargebacks and fraud
Content creators might encounter fans who make payments to view their content but then initiate a chargeback, resulting in financial losses for the creator and even leading to increased scrutiny by the platform and an account review.
Stalking
Some creators, especially adult content creators who offer sexually explicit content, have reported cases of stalking by obsessive OnlyFans subscribers. To stay safe, do not post any personal information on OnlyFans that could be used to track you down.
Risks for subscribers
OnlyFans subscribers also face some risks when using the platform, including data breaches, phishing, and exposure to inappropriate content.
Data breaches
No online platform can guarantee absolute safety from data breaches, and OnlyFans is no exception. The large amount of subscribers’ personal information stored on their OnlyFans accounts, their subscription history, and login information is a constant target for cybercriminals.
PRO TIP: In the event of a data breach, the most important thing is to act fast. Use the Dark Web Monitor feature to get an instant alert if your credentials are compromised.
Phishing and malware
Malicious OnlyFans users trick legitimate users into visiting phishing websites by using the direct messaging feature on OnlyFans. Cybercriminals target both content creators and fans with their phishing scams aimed at infecting users’ devices with all types of malware.
Unsafe content for kids
There are multiple influencers and celebrities on OnlyFans whose videos and pictures are appropriate for all ages. However, the large amount of adult-only content makes OnlyFans inappropriate for children and teenagers. That’s why there is an 18+ age restriction for both content creators and fans.
If you want to keep your children safe online, use a parental control app to make sure they do not stumble upon harmful content. The same goes for teens, so if you’re a parent — check out our tips on internet safety for teenagers.
Safety tips for OnlyFans creators and subscribers
Keep your personal information, identity, and content safe on OnlyFans by following the tips below.
Enable two-factor authentication
OnlyFans provides two-factor authentication via an authenticator app or an SMS message. Here are the instructions for setting up two-step verification using an authenticator app:
- Click “More” on the sidebar menu.
- Next, click on “Settings.”
- Then click “Account” and select “Two step authentication.”
- Toggle the authenticator app button to the “On” position and install Google Authenticator on your phone.
- Click the plus icon and scan the QR code.
- Enter the code from your phone at the bottom of the page and click “Enable.”
- Check your email and enter the code to confirm.
- Click “Close.”
Here are the instructions for the two-step verification via an SMS:
- Toggle the button “Verification via SMS” to an “On” position.
- Enter your phone number and click “Save.”
- Enter the code you received and click “Confirm.”
- Tick the reCAPTCHA box and click “Save.”
- Then enter the code received from your phone, tick the reCAPTCHA box again, and click “Verify.”
- Click “Close.” That’s it!
Aside from enabling two-factor authentication, make sure you use a strong password for your account. It should be long, complicated, and different from your other passwords.
Use a private email for your account
Use a separate, private email account to create your OnlyFans account and use it exclusively for OnlyFans. In case of a data breach, your personal email and information won’t be leaked because it won’t be connected to your OnlyFans account. Check out our post on how to set up an anonymous email account.
Add watermarks
OnlyFans offers a watermark feature, so make sure to always watermark your videos and pictures to avoid content and identity theft.
Use a VPN while browsing
Most online platforms log the IP addresses of its visitors. Having the same practice, OnlyFans uses these logs to identify visitor traffic from different countries. So use a VPN while browsing to add an extra layer of privacy to your online life. Using a VPN app will not prevent OnlyFans from gathering information on your account activity, but it will mask your IP and ensure your online traffic is encrypted and secure.
Protect your devices
Use antivirus software and malware protection like Threat Protection Pro to protect your devices and personal information by detecting malicious software and preventing cyberattacks.