Deepfake nudes
AI-made fake nude images of real people, often classmates, are reported as common among young people, and a recent report found only about 30% of teens say a teacher has ever discussed safe AI use.
Should I worry?
A fake nude image can be made from an ordinary photo and shared without the person knowing. Even though it is fake, it can cause real shame, bullying and distress, and kids who make or pass these images along can face school and legal trouble. Warning signs include a teen who suddenly avoids school or group chats, seems anxious about their phone, or mentions rumours about a photo. If it happens, stay calm, tell your child it is not their fault, keep screenshots as evidence, report the image on the platform, and contact the school. Most teens get little guidance on this at school, so the conversation often falls to you.
How to join in
Teens already live with AI tools that can edit faces and photos, and many see them as just another filter or joke. That is why some do not realise that using someone's face in a fake nude image is harmful, not a prank. A good way in is to ask what AI photo tools they and their friends use, and whether anyone at school has talked about fake images. Starting from curiosity rather than suspicion keeps them talking.
Try saying
“I read that some kids are making fake nude pictures of real people with AI, and I wanted you to know you could tell me about it if it ever touched you or a friend. It wouldn't be your fault, and I'd help sort it out, not punish you. Have you heard anything like that at school?”
If you’re worried
If your child is in immediate danger, call 911. To report online sexual exploitation, including fake sexual images of a minor, contact Cybertip.ca. NeedHelpNow.ca helps teens get intimate images removed. Kids Help Phone is available at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting 686868. If your child talks about hurting themselves, call or text 988.
Sources
From Mistlift, mistlift.app. Plain talk about what kids are into online.