Protecting Teens from Deepfake Pornography: A Call to Action
The Issue at Hand
Deepfake pornography, a form of nonconsensual intimate images, is a growing concern for teenagers across the United States. These images, created using artificial intelligence (AI) to superimpose someone’s face onto a video or photo of an adult, can cause lasting psychological harm to the individuals involved. The widespread distribution of these images can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and embarrassment, making it difficult for victims to seek help or report the incident.
First Lady Melania Trump’s Initiative
First Lady Melania Trump has taken a proactive approach to address this issue by supporting the "Be Best" anti-cyberbullying initiative. In a recent event, Mrs. Trump joined U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, to highlight his legislation aimed at shutting down the publication of nonconsensual deepfake pornography and intimate images. The First Lady emphasized the importance of safeguarding children from computer-generated images of real people and other harmful online behavior.
The Story of Elliston Berry
Elliston Berry, a 15-year-old Aledo High School student, became a victim of deepfakes created and spread online by a classmate in October 2023. In an emotional account of her experience, Elliston shared how she was 14 when she awoke to a disturbing message from a friend: nude photos of her were circulating on social media. The classmate had taken an innocent photo off Instagram and used an app to turn it into fake, but realistic-looking, nude images.
The Impact on Victims
Elliston’s experience is not an isolated incident. Many teenagers, including girls, are facing a surge in AI-generated sexual images, leading to senseless psychological harm. These images can be spread quickly online, causing long-term damage to the victims’ mental health and relationships.
Cruz’s Take It Down Act
Senator Ted Cruz’s Take It Down Act aims to criminalize the publication of nonconsensual intimate images, including realistic computer-generated photos and videos depicting real people. The bill also requires digital platforms to remove the images within 48 hours if requested by a victim.
Support for the Bill
The Senate has passed the bill without any recorded opposition, but the House did not act before the session ended, putting the bill back to square one in the 119th Congress. The Senate again approved the legislation last month, returning it to the House. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise, both Louisiana Republicans, have expressed strong support for the bill, praising Elliston and other victims who attended the event to advocate for the legislation.
Conclusion
The issue of deepfake pornography is a pressing concern for teenagers and young adults. The First Lady’s initiative and Senator Cruz’s Take It Down Act are crucial steps towards addressing this problem. It is essential to recognize the harm caused by these images and work towards creating a safer online environment for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is deepfake pornography?
A: Deepfake pornography refers to the creation and distribution of nonconsensual intimate images using artificial intelligence (AI) to superimpose someone’s face onto a video or photo of an adult.
Q: How does deepfake pornography affect victims?
A: Deepfake pornography can cause lasting psychological harm to victims, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and embarrassment, making it difficult for them to seek help or report the incident.
Q: What is the Take It Down Act?
A: The Take It Down Act is a bill introduced by Senator Ted Cruz aimed at shutting down the publication of nonconsensual deepfake pornography and intimate images. The bill criminalizes the publication of these images and requires digital platforms to remove them within 48 hours if requested by a victim.
Q: How can I get involved in the fight against deepfake pornography?
A: You can start by spreading awareness about the issue and its impact on teenagers and young adults. Support organizations that work towards creating a safer online environment and advocate for legislation that protects victims of deepfake pornography.
