law in Sweden that makes it illegal to buy custom adult content

admin June 22, 2025

Sweden passed a law, effective July 1, 2025, that criminalizes the purchase of custom-made adult content online, such as personalized videos or live cam shows on platforms like OnlyFans. The law updates Sweden’s existing Sex Purchase Act, which already bans buying sexual services but not selling them, aligning with the Nordic Model. It targets “on-demand” sexual acts performed remotely, where a buyer pays for specific content or real-time performances. Penalties include up to one year in prison for buyers and up to four years for those profiting from or promoting such acts (e.g., platform operators).

Key points:

Scope: It’s illegal to pay for tailored content (e.g., requesting specific acts) or live-streamed sexual performances. Pre-recorded, non-customized content remains legal to buy and view.
Intent: Lawmakers, like Social Democrat MP Teresa Carvalho and Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer, argue it modernizes prostitution laws to address digital platforms, equating online purchases to physical sex buying, aiming to curb exploitation and human trafficking.
Criticism: Adult content creators, such as Emma Larsson and Sanna Zentio, and groups like the European Sex Workers’ Rights Alliance (ESWRA) oppose the law, claiming it endangers creators by reducing income, pushing them into riskier work, and limiting financial independence. Critics also warn of privacy concerns and potential surveillance to enforce the law.
Platforms: OnlyFans and similar sites may face challenges, with fears of blocking Swedish creators to avoid legal risks. Both OnlyFans and Pornhub have stated they’ll comply but haven’t detailed how.

The law passed with strong parliamentary support but has sparked debate over its impact on consensual adult work and digital rights.