Turkey Arrests 16 Adult Content Creators Over Fraud
Turkish authorities have arrested 16 adult content creators linked to the banned platform OnlyFans on charges of money laundering, prosecutors confirmed on Friday.
The arrests followed a series of raids on Thursday, during which investigators seized assets valued at 300 million Turkish lira ($6.9 million), the Istanbul Public Prosecutor’s Office said. Confiscated items included two companies, 10 properties, and 14 vehicles.
The prosecutor’s statement said the suspects shared obscene images and videos on OnlyFans, in violation of Turkish law, and promoted the platform on other social media channels, including Telegram. Authorities allege the creators laundered proceeds from these activities through various investments, though it was not confirmed whether all seized assets were funded solely by income from OnlyFans.
Media reports indicated that 16 of the 25 individuals named in the warrant had been arrested, mainly in Istanbul and Ankara, while at least five others are believed to be outside Turkey.
OnlyFans, a subscription-based adult content platform, has been banned in Turkey since June 2023 after a court ruled the site’s content violated public morality and family values. Despite the ban, the platform remains accessible through VPNs.
Turkish authorities have emphasized that the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to enforce the country’s laws against online pornography and prevent illicit financial activities linked to banned platforms.
The arrests mark one of the largest coordinated actions against adult content creators in Turkey, sending a clear warning about the legal and financial risks of operating on banned platforms.
Authorities continue to investigate the network, and further arrests and asset seizures are expected as the probe expands.
The move comes amid broader efforts by Turkey to regulate online content and clamp down on platforms deemed incompatible with local cultural and moral standards.
Officials have urged the public to report any suspected violations of the ban on adult content sites to law enforcement agencies.
Legal experts say the crackdown may have wider implications for digital content creators operating in countries with strict online content regulations.
The prosecutor’s office has pledged to follow through with prosecutions and ensure that those found guilty face the full extent of Turkish law.
Observers note that while OnlyFans and similar platforms are popular internationally, creators operating in jurisdictions with restrictive laws face significant legal exposure.
The Turkish action also highlights ongoing challenges governments face in policing digital content and financial flows linked to online platforms.
The arrested creators now face formal charges of money laundering and violation of Turkish content laws, with trials expected in the coming months.
The investigation has drawn attention from international media, as OnlyFans remains accessible worldwide despite localized bans.
Law enforcement officials stated that the operation aimed not only to punish violations but also to deter others from circumventing national regulations using digital platforms.
The crackdown underscores Turkey’s commitment to enforcing its content restrictions while tackling financial crimes associated with banned platforms.
Authorities continue to review financial records and transactions linked to the suspects to ensure full accountability.
The action also serves as a reminder that online activities, even via subscription platforms, are subject to national legal frameworks.
Police have urged individuals involved in similar activities to cease operations and comply with the law to avoid arrest and asset seizure.
The Turkish government is expected to maintain strict monitoring of online adult content platforms in the coming months.
Lawmakers have expressed support for the operation, stating that it aligns with national priorities for public morality, security, and financial integrity.
The outcome of the investigation could set a precedent for handling online adult content creators in Turkey and other countries with similar legal restrictions.