New Legislation Targets Deepfake Offences: Protecting Victims of Image-Based Abuse

The rise of deepfake technology has brought with it a disturbing trend: the creation and spread of non-consensual explicit content. This growing issue has led governments worldwide to introduce legislation aimed at protecting individuals from image-based abuse. Both the UK and the US are taking significant steps to address the dangers posed by AI-generated deepfake pornography and revenge porn, ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences.

UK Cracks Down on Deepfake Abuse

In the UK, the government has recently introduced laws making it a criminal offence to create or share sexually explicit deepfake images and videos without consent. This legislation, designed to close existing legal loopholes, means that offenders could now face up to two years in prison.

This is a critical step forward, given that many victims of deepfake abuse—particularly women and girls—have previously struggled to have such content removed or to hold perpetrators accountable. The new law ensures that individuals have legal protection against the harmful misuse of AI-generated content.

According to Draycott Browne, this legislation signals a growing recognition of the dangers posed by deepfake technology and the urgent need for legal frameworks to combat it.

The Take It Down Act in the US

Across the Atlantic, similar action is being taken in the United States with the introduction of the Take It Down Act. This bipartisan bill seeks to criminalize the publication or threat of publishing intimate images without consent, including deepfake pornography. If passed, the law would require social media platforms to remove such content within 48 hours upon request from victims.

Melania Trump has been a key advocate for this legislation, recently hosting a roundtable discussion on Capitol Hill to highlight the devastating effects of non-consensual explicit imagery, particularly on young people. She described the issue as “heartbreaking” and stressed the importance of safeguarding individuals from online exploitation.

How Victims Can Take Action

For those affected by deepfake abuse and non-consensual intimate imagery, immediate support is available. https://takeitdown.ncmec.org is a vital resource that helps individuals request the removal of explicit content from online platforms. This service is particularly valuable in cases where legal action may take time, providing a swift solution for victims seeking to regain control over their online presence.

A Step Toward Safer Online Spaces

The introduction of these laws in the UK and the US marks an important step toward tackling deepfake abuse and ensuring that individuals are protected from the malicious use of AI technology. While legal frameworks are evolving, platforms like https://takeitdown.ncmec.org play a crucial role in supporting victims and holding offenders accountable.

As deepfake technology continues to advance, governments, tech companies, and advocacy groups must work together to prevent its misuse. These new laws demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding digital rights and ensuring that no one falls victim to image-based abuse without legal recourse.