The government has announced the introduction of four new laws aimed at addressing the growing threat posed by child sexual abuse images created through artificial intelligence (AI).
The Home Office has announced that the UK will become the first nation globally to criminalize the possession, creation, or distribution of AI tools intended for the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Offenders could face a prison sentence of up to five years.
The possession of AI-generated manuals related to paedophilia is set to become illegal, with offenders facing potential prison sentences of up to three years. These manuals provide instructions on the misuse of AI in exploiting young individuals.
“Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the alarming connection between the online activities of dangerous predators and their potential to commit severe acts of abuse in real life.”
“The government is committed to taking decisive action to protect children online, emphasizing the need for laws that adapt to emerging threats.”
Additional legislation has been introduced that criminalizes the operation of websites facilitating the sharing of child sexual abuse material among paedophiles or offering guidance on grooming children. The offence could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
The Border Force is set to receive new authority to mandate that individuals suspected of posing a sexual risk to children unlock their digital devices for inspection upon entering the UK, given that child sexual abuse material is frequently recorded overseas. The potential consequences for the severity of the images could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.
Artificially generated CSAM consists of images that are either partially or entirely created through computer technology. The software can alter authentic images by removing clothing and swapping children’s faces, resulting in a strikingly realistic outcome.
In certain instances, the authentic voices of children are employed, raising concerns that innocent survivors of abuse may be subjected to re-victimization.
There is a disturbing trend of using fabricated images to extort children, coercing victims into enduring additional abuse.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) reported that it conducts approximately 800 arrests each month in connection with online threats to children. A report indicates that 840,000 adults pose a risk to children across the country, both in digital spaces and in real life, representing 1.6% of the adult population.
Cooper stated that the four new laws represent significant steps aimed at ensuring the safety of children in the online environment as technology continues to advance.
“Addressing child sexual abuse in both online and offline environments is crucial for enhancing public safety,” she emphasized.
Some experts contend that the government could have taken more extensive measures.
Professor Clare McGlynn, a leading authority on the legal regulation of pornography, sexual violence, and online abuse, expressed that while the changes are “welcome,” there remain “significant gaps.”
The government is urged to prohibit “nudity” applications and address the “normalization of sexual activity involving young-looking girls on mainstream pornographic websites.” These videos have been characterized as “simulated child sexual abuse videos,” according to her statement.
According to her, these videos feature adult performers who present themselves as very young, often depicted in children’s bedrooms adorned with toys, bunches, braces and other childhood indicators. “This material is readily accessible through common search terms, raising concerns about its role in legitimizing and normalizing child sexual abuse.” In contrast to numerous other nations, this material continues legal in the UK.
The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has issued a warning regarding the increasing production of AI-generated images depicting sexual abuse of children, noting their growing presence on the open web.
Recent data from the charity indicates a staggering 380% increase in reports of CSAM, with 245 confirmed cases in 2024, a significant rise from the 51 reports recorded in 2023. Reports have the potential to include thousands of images.
Last year’s research revealed that within a single month, a staggering 3,512 images depicting child sexual abuse and exploitation were identified on a particular dark website. Compared to the same month last year, there has been a 10% increase in the number of images classified as Category A, the most severe category.
According to experts, AI-generated child sexual abuse material can frequently appear strikingly realistic, complicating the distinction between authentic and fabricated content.
Derek Ray-Hill, the interim chief executive of the IWF, expressed concern, stating, “The availability of this AI content further fuels sexual violence against children.”The situation empowers and supports abusers, ultimately compromising the safety of actual children. The announcement is a significant step forward, though much work remains to be done to safeguard against the potential exploitation of AI technology. These measures are a crucial starting point in addressing the challenges ahead.
Lynn Perry, the chief executive of the children’s charity Barnardo’s, expressed her approval of the government’s initiative to address AI-generated CSAM, highlighting its role in normalizing child abuse and increasing risks for children in both online and offline environments.
“She emphasized the importance of ensuring that legislation evolves alongside technological advancements to combat these horrific crimes.”
Technology companies must ensure that their platforms provide a safe environment for children. Action is urgently needed to establish more robust safeguards, and Ofcom must ensure the effective and thorough implementation of the Online Safety Act.
New measures will be introduced as part of the Crime and Policing Bill, which is expected to be presented in parliament in the coming weeks.
