Making deepfake pornographic images illegal
The Ministry of Justice is updating the Criminal Justice Bill to include a new criminal offence targeting the creation of deepfake sexual images.
The Criminal Justice Bill currently going through Parliament will criminalize the creation of pornographic “deepfake” images.
The Ministry of Justice announced on Tuesday that the legislation will be amended to address advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
The new law will impose severe penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment, on individuals creating sexually explicit deepfake content without consent.
The creator does not have to share the images to be held accountable.
Last year, the BBC drama “The Capture” raised concerns about deepfake content, illustrating potential dangers in a storyline involving AI clones and political manipulation.
Laura Farris, the minister for victims and safeguarding, emphasized the unacceptable nature of creating deepfake sexual images, regardless of whether they are shared.
She stated, “This new offence sends a message that creating this content is immoral, often misogynistic, and criminal.”
The legislation’s scope regarding satirical or comedic content and potential legal defenses remains unclear.
Deborah Joseph, European editorial director of Glamour, praised the new law, citing a survey showing deepfake technology’s perceived threat to women’s safety.
Broadcaster Cathy Newman, a victim of deepfake imagery, described the experience as violating and disturbing.
