Summary
Imgur, an image-hosting site, has blocked access to users in the UK. This decision follows a warning from the UK's data watchdog about potential fines related to the platform's handling of age verification and children's data. Imgur described the move as a commercial decision.
Key Facts
- Imgur is an image-hosting platform used widely for sharing images online.
- UK users are now blocked from accessing Imgur, starting from September 30, 2025.
- The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) warned Imgur’s parent company about potential fines for not complying with data protection laws.
- The ICO's investigation into Imgur started in March and focuses on the site's age verification and data collection from children.
- The ICO mentioned Imgur did not require users to declare their age when setting up an account.
- Imgur's decision to block UK access is described as a "commercial decision" rather than a direct response to regulatory requirements.
- Other services by Imgur’s parent company, like Kik messenger, remain accessible in the UK with age verification measures in place.
