Protecting Victims of AI-Generated Explicit Material: The Need for Stronger Safeguards
The Rise of AI-Generated Explicit Material
A mother and her 14-year-old daughter from New Jersey are advocating for better protections for victims after AI-generated nude images of the teen and other female classmates were circulated at their high school. In a similar incident, a teenage boy in suburban Seattle, Washington allegedly used artificial intelligence to create and distribute similar images of his fellow students.
These cases highlight the alarming trend of explicit AI-generated material that predominantly targets women and children. Independent researcher Genevieve Oh conducted an analysis revealing that over 143,000 new deepfake videos were posted online this year, surpassing the total from all previous years combined.
The Call for Robust Safeguards
Families affected by these incidents are desperately calling on lawmakers to implement stronger safeguards for victims. They are seeking protections for those whose images are manipulated using AI models and for the apps and websites openly offering these services.
Advocates and legal experts are also urging federal regulation to provide uniform protections across the country and send a clear message to perpetrators.
Fighting for our Children
One mother, Dorota Mani, emphasizes the urgency of the situation by stating, “We’re fighting for our children. They don’t care about political affiliations; they just want to be loved and to be safe.”
The Increasing Threat of Deepfakes
The issue of deepfakes is not new, but experts argue that it is escalating as technology becomes more accessible and user-friendly. This year, there has been a significant surge in AI-generated child sexual abuse material featuring real victims or virtual characters.
In response to reports of victimization, the FBI issued a warning in June regarding the widespread use of explicit content created using manipulated photos or videos.
Varied Legislation and the Need for Federal Law
Several states have enacted their own laws to combat the issue, but the scope and effectiveness of these laws differ. Some states, such as Texas, Minnesota, and New York, passed legislation criminalizing nonconsensual deepfake porn. Others, like California and Illinois, allow victims to sue perpetrators for damages in civil court.
States such as New Jersey are now considering their own legislation to ban deepfake porn and impose penalties on those who spread it. However, legal experts assert that a comprehensive federal law is needed to provide consistent protections nationwide and address organizations profiting from deepfake products and apps.
The Importance of Labeling AI-Generated Content
President Joe Biden signed an executive order in October that addresses the issue of AI-generated explicit material. The order prohibits the use of generative AI to produce child sexual abuse material or non-consensual intimate imagery. It also directs the federal government to issue guidance on labeling and watermarking AI-generated content to distinguish between authentic and software-generated material.
Congressional representatives have introduced bills to combat the dissemination of deepfake porn, but progress has been hindered by gridlock. Some organizations, including the ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, urge caution to ensure any legislation does not infringe upon First Amendment rights.
A Call for Action and Support
Families impacted by AI-generated explicit material are taking a stand. Dorota Mani’s daughter has created a website and charity to support victims of AI abuse. They are collaborating with lawmakers in New Jersey and planning a trip to Washington to advocate for stronger safeguards.
In the words of Dorota Mani, “Not every child, boy or girl, will have the support system to deal with this issue, and they might not see the light at the end of the tunnel.” It is crucial that we take the necessary steps to protect vulnerable individuals, enforce stricter regulations, and combat the growing threat of AI-generated explicit material.
