The British government has recently announced its intention to criminalize the creation of sexually explicit deepfakes, in an effort to combat online abuse and violence against women. Perpetrators could face up to two years in prison if found guilty of creating or sharing deepfake content without consent.
The decision to criminalize the creation of deepfakes comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to address the prevalence of online abuse, particularly against women. According to victims minister, Alex Davies-Jones, it is unacceptable that one in three women have been victims of online abuse, and measures must be taken to prevent further victimization.
The Online Safety Act 2023 already prohibits the sharing or threatening to share intimate images, including deepfakes, under the Sexual Offences Act 2003. However, the government is now looking to expand these laws to specifically target the creation of deepfake content, and taking or recording intimate photographs or films without consent.
Sexually explicit deepfakes created using AI technology have become a growing concern, often used by cyber-bullies and online extortionists. These malicious actors manipulate benign images or videos of victims, obtained from social media and other public sources, to create realistic and often damaging content.
While the proposed law aims to deter individuals from creating and sharing deepfakes, some experts are skeptical about its effectiveness. ESET global cybersecurity advisor, Jake Moore, expressed concerns that law enforcement agencies may struggle to identify and prosecute offenders using deepfake technology.
Moore pointed out that deepfake technology is constantly evolving, making it challenging for police to trace the origins of the content. Many unethical AI services operate on the dark web or encrypted communication channels, making it difficult for authorities to track down those responsible for creating and distributing deepfake content.
Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to tackling online abuse and protecting individuals from the harmful effects of deepfakes. By criminalizing the creation of sexually explicit deepfakes, the hope is to deter offenders and hold them accountable for their actions.
As technology continues to advance, it will be crucial for law enforcement agencies to stay updated on the latest developments in deepfake technology and adapt their investigative techniques accordingly. Only through a comprehensive and proactive approach can authorities effectively combat the growing threat of deepfake content online.