Creating explicit ‘deepfake’ images without consent,even if they are not shared, will be made a criminal offence punishable with an unlimited fine, the Ministry of Justice have announced
Sharing the images could result in a jail sentence
The new offence will be introduced through an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill, which is currently making its way through parliament.
Deepfake images have become more prevalent in recent years, with images being viewed millions of times a month across the world. The fake images and videos are made to look hyper-realistic with the victim usually unaware and unable to give their consent to being sexualised in such a way.
Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, Laura Farris, said:
The creation of deepfake sexual images is despicable and completely unacceptable irrespective of whether the image is shared.
It is another example of ways in which certain people seek to degrade and dehumanise others – especially women. And it has the capacity to cause catastrophic consequences if the material is shared more widely. This government will not tolerate it.
This new offence sends a crystal clear message that making this material is immoral, often misogynistic, and a crime.
