What is OnlyFans? How the Site Works and Why It's So Popular

OnlyFans started with a different purpose, but the pandemic in 2020 changed everything. But what is OnlyFans, anyway? And why has it become so popular? This is where we reveal what no one's telling you- from how OnlyFans started, how it works, and why everyone is jumping on it despite its controversies.
OnlyFans | October 17, 2024 | 10 min read
Learn what is OnlyFans.

What is OnlyFans?

OnlyFans is a subscription-based platform where creators share exclusive content with their subscribers. It's similar to other social media sites, except that your fans or followers pay a monthly subscription to see what you post.

When you ask most people, "What is an OF?" They'll likely tell you it's an adult content site where people pay random creators to share their spicy media with them. While this is completely true, you can also be a creator without selling nude content.

For example, the platform supports various industries like fitness, music, and art. Whether you sell adult content or not, users can pay to access your posts, videos, live streams, or private messages.

You can earn through subscriptions, tips, and pay-per-view content. You control what you post and how you price your OnlyFans content.

But let's be honest, the site is most popular for sexual content, and that's why most OnlyFans definitions will center on that.

How long has OnlyFans been around?

OnlyFans started back in 2016. The British founder, Tim Stokely, created the platform for creators to make money directly from their fans. He wanted to give creators more control over their earnings and bring them closer to their fans. Hence the name "OnlyFans."

This concept later caught the eye of Leonid Radvinsky, a Chicago-based internet entrepreneur with experience in the adult entertainment industry. In 2018, he acquired a 75% stake in the company, seeing its potential to grow beyond its original vision.

However, the platform never actually "blew up" until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This happened because many people stayed home and wanted new ways to earn online.

During that time, the OnlyFans site attracted several big-name celebrities. Popular figures like Tyga, Jordyn Woods, Blac Chyna, Cardi B, and Bella Thorne joined, bringing even more attention to the site.

Their presence not only boosted the platform's visibility but also showed that it wasn't just for regular people. It became a space where celebrities could connect directly with their fans. This made OnlyFans gain massive popularity and become well-favored within the adult content community.

All this was possible because of the platform's flexible approach to content and monetization. OnlyFans' unique style gained worldwide attention, and by the end of 2020, it had over 90 million users.

Here are some key OnlyFans information highlighting major milestones in the platform's growth:

OnlyFans explained: What is OnlyFans used for?

OnlyFans was originally meant to bridge the gap between all kinds of creators and the people who purchase their work, cutting out the need for agencies that often exploit creators. It gave creators more control over their content and let fans support them directly through subscriptions.

However, since that "content" could be almost anything, it attracted many adult creators, transforming it into what it is today.

So what do people do on OnlyFans? Well, they mostly:

Sell nude content

Pics, videos, behind-the-scenes looks, and other exclusive media fans pay to see. They also offer personalized content based on fans' requests. Besides OnlyFans, there are many other platforms where people sell nudes.

Chat privately

Sliding into someone's DMs on social media can feel awkward or intrusive. But when you subscribe to their OnlyFans, it opens up a more natural way to interact with them—even if it's a paid feature. The private chat option makes it easier and more acceptable to connect with creators directly. And you're more likely to get a response.

Host live streams

Creators can chat with their subscribers in real-time. During OnlyFans live streams, models can share spicy content, answer questions, and connect with fans on a deeper level. This kind of interaction makes subscribers feel involved, which often leads to more tips and subscriptions.

Receive payments

Most payment platforms do not support sex work. Those who support it don't offer the protection that users need to transact with peace of mind. So creators typically use OnlyFans because it provides a secure payment system that protects them from scams and chargebacks that can happen with outside deals.

What does OnlyFans look like?

OnlyFans has a clean and straightforward layout, similar to many social media platforms. It's not mind-blowing, but it's simple to navigate. When you log in, you'll see a feed of posts from creators you follow featuring images, videos, and updates.

You'll also get a recommendation of creators you might want to check out on the right side of your home screen.

An example of an OnlyFans Page.

An example of an OnlyFans Page.

Each creator's profile includes their bio, subscription options, and tabs for posts, messages, and tips. The interface allows for easy navigation, so you can browse content, interact with creators, and manage your subscriptions without hassle.

How much do people make on OnlyFans?

The amount creators make on OnlyFans varies widely based on factors like the content they offer and the size of their audience. Earnings can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per month. But, the average OnlyFans income is just $150.

However, according to OnlyFans, over 100 creators have surpassed the $1 million mark in earnings. Since its creation in 2016, the platform has paid out more than $3 billion to creators. So, if you're smart about promoting your OnlyFans account, you'll be able to make more than the average amount.

Why is OnlyFans controversial?

Adult content drama

OnlyFans has gotten a lot of heat mainly because of its link to adult content. The platform is open to all kinds of creators, but it blew up thanks to sex workers.

Then you have celebrities like Bella Thorne, Blac Chyna, and Bhad Bhabie jumping on board, which also caused backlash.

Bella Thorne, a top OnlyFans earner, made $1 million in a day. Sex workers were upset, saying she was "gentrifying" the platform and not giving them credit for paving the way.

Underage content issues

There's also been serious talk about underage users slipping through the cracks. In 2021, a BBC investigation found that minors were getting around the platform's age-verification system to post explicit content.

A documentary even showed that a bunch of Twitter users selling explicit images were under 18. This has only added more pressure on OnlyFans to tighten security and make sure younger users aren't taking advantage of the system.

Privacy, revenge porn, and content leaks

OnlyFans likes to say your content is private and only subscribers can see it, but that's not always true. There have been many incidents where people screenshot, record, or even hack content.

Once your content leaks to the general public online, it gets shared everywhere, and it's almost impossible to get rid of. This is a big issue, especially with revenge porn. A 2024 investigation found over 120 people filed police complaints after their explicit content was posted without their consent.

Ghostwriting and AI

Some creators are so busy they hire assistants or agencies to reply to their fans for them. It's not a great look when subscribers realize they're not actually talking to the creator.

Lately, some creators have even been using OnlyFans AI or chatbots to handle the flood of messages. While it helps them manage things, it often breaks the trust between creators and their fans.

OnlyFans age requirement

Before anyone can start earning on OnlyFans, they must first verify their account and add their bank details. OnlyFans requires everyone to be at least 18, and they don't make exceptions.

This is the OnlyFans age requirement.

This is the OnlyFans age requirement.

You upload your ID and a selfie to confirm your identity. OnlyFans checks both, and once everything matches, they approve your account.

The whole process takes about 24 to 48 hours. If they reject it, just fix the issues they list and try again. Once you're verified, you add your bank details to start getting paid.

Nowadays, OnlyFans is taking age rules very seriously, especially with the controversy surrounding minors accessing the site. If anyone lies, their account gets banned. Sharing content of anyone under 18 is illegal and has serious consequences.

How to subscribe to a creator's OnlyFans page

Subscribing to an OnlyFans account as a newbie is straightforward. First, you need to create an account by signing up on the OnlyFans website using your email, Twitter, or Google account.

Once you're logged in, you can browse or search for a specific creator you'd like to follow.

When you find someone interesting, go to their profile and check out their subscription options. Most creators offer different tiers or bundles depending on your budget.

After choosing a plan, you'll need to add your payment details. Once the creator confirms your subscription, you can access their content. You can also send tips or pay for additional content, like personalized messages if you want more interaction. Depending on the creator, the price can range from a few dollars to over $100.

How creators promote their OnlyFans account

Creators usually promote their OnlyFans by using social media like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. They post teasers, link their accounts in their bios, and use stories or tweets to drive traffic.

Creators promote their OnlyFans account on Reddit.

Creators promote their OnlyFans account on Reddit.

Some models team up with other creators or influencers to cross-promote and tap into each other's followers. Reddit is also great for reaching very specific audiences looking for content just like yours.

They use Social Rise to schedule Reddit posts and monitor analytics so they can quickly grow their OnlyFans account and earn more.

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Many creators also throw in giveaways, discounts, or paid ads to get more eyes on their page and boost their subscriber count.

FAQ about OnlyFans meaning

What is OnlyFans app?

There is no OnlyFans app. An app is a mobile or desktop version of a website, but OnlyFans doesn't have one. Users can access it only on the web to get the latest updates and consistent experience.

What does OnlyFans mean?

OnlyFans is the go-to place to get spicy sexual content directly from creators. Different people sign up as creators and post various adult content but hide it behind a paywall so only those who pay or subscribe can see it.

When was OnlyFans created?

OnlyFans was created in 2016 by Tim Stokely. It became even more popular during the pandemic when more people began selling sexual content on it.

What is on Onlyfans?

OnlyFans has all kinds of content. It's mostly known for nude content, but you can find fitness tips, cooking demos, music, and art too. Creators post photos, videos, and even live streams for their subscribers.

How old do you have to be to start an OnlyFans?

You must be at least 18 to create an account on OnlyFans, whether you're a creator or a subscriber.

Conclusion: what is onlyfans.com

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