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This note comes from Mistlift, a plain-language guide for parents and educators to what kids are into online.

A note for families: AI nude deepfakes of teens

Act Ages 11-17 Last checked October 7, 2026

What it is

Offenders and some peers use AI to fake sexual images of teens from ordinary photos, and offenders use them to extort money; Cybertip.ca and the IWF both report sharp increases.

How much it matters

Real, documented harm. A person checked this card before it was published.

Should you worry?

A teen no longer has to send anything for this to happen: an ordinary profile photo can be turned into a fake sexual image, and the offender then threatens to share it unless the teen pays. Warning signs include a new online contact who suddenly turns to threats, a teen who is panicked or secretive about their phone, or unexplained requests for money or gift cards. The image is fake but the harm is real, and the shame is what keeps kids quiet. Tell your teen that they are never in trouble for being targeted, that paying rarely ends it, and that they should come to you first. Save the messages, do not delete them, and report. Making or passing around fake sexual images of a classmate is also a serious offence, so it is worth saying that too.

What to say

“I read that people are using AI to make fake pictures of teens, and then threatening them to get money. If that ever happened to you, or to a friend, it would not be your fault, and I wouldn't be angry. I'd just want to help you deal with it, together.”

If you’re worried

If your teen is in immediate danger, call 911. Report online sexual exploitation or sextortion, including AI-faked images, to Cybertip.ca. NeedHelpNow.ca helps get intimate images taken down. Kids Help Phone is there for your teen at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting 686868. Keep the messages as evidence and avoid paying.

Sources

Read the full card, and share it, at mistlift.app/cards/ai-nude-deepfakes-of-teens