XXX is a traditional phrase used to denote sexually explicit sites on the internet and content in the pornographic industry, and has its predecessor in the X certificate used by the British film industry. It was suggested as a top level domain reference for pornographic websites in 2005, but has since not been implemented. Critics of this scheme labelled as being immoral by virtue of legitimizing or branding pornographic culture on the internet and for increasing the potential revenue for an already massive online industry. Of the websites involved in this issue, many have online dating related, which are often misrepresented in the media for promoting sexual predation, particularly amongst children. This has been largely focused around the anonymity of chat rooms and the potential for abuse, although it is also arguable that cases are exaggerated and represent a minority. There are many legitimate sites who offer dating and contact services through legal channels and with full security checks, therefore reducing risk and promoting a more open approach to the service.
