I have many friends who are within marginalized groups and communities and rely on online platforms to host fully legal adult content as a means of making a living or supporting a little extra. Sadly, they face adversity not from law enforcement or society, but from the monolithic corporations Visa and Mastercard. Their terms and conditions blacklist legal adult platforms based on unfounded and made up fears. Meanwhile, I follow and plan to support several of these talented content creators who are equally threatened by these dictated restrictions. This reality is not just affecting their livelihoods, but also stifling creative freedom and independence. I even plan to make some more myself to host on one of these platforms.

Visa and Mastercard justify their restrictive terms under the guise of preventing illegal content transactions. The truth is, their premise rests on fearmongering an outdated concept. Contrary to their belief, direct and traceable transactions through their cards are considerably less used than less traceable cryptocurrency trades, which are often favored for illicit purchases. The ongoing policies do not deter illegal activities; instead, they strip legitimate creators of their chances to reach their audience and earn a decent living as well as feed niches that would often net them a larger apy.

Many of these creators are already part of marginalized communities, furry fandom, trans communities, gay communities, etc. Some of these individuals face some scrutiny online and even in their everyday life, and now jobs can fire people for being part of the lgbtqia+ community, and content creation, specifically now adult content, provides them with a fair chance to thrive in a judgment-free space. Denying them payment avenues via major card companies only amplifies their struggles and squashes their aspirations.

It's time for Visa and Mastercard to reconsider their stances. By aligning their operations with modern realities, acknowledging that adult content purchases are not for illegal content and that platforms hosting this already regulate content based on exsisting laws (banning illegal content such as CSAM and Beastiality), and focusing on collaboration with content platforms to enhance safety and legality, they can aid in dispelling misinformation while championing inclusivity. 

Support this cause by signing the petition. Let’s encourage Visa and Mastercard to adopt a more open and equitable approach in managing legal adult content transactions, for the sake of those who rely on these services for survival, creativity, and personal expression. Your signature can make a significant impact.