Rise of AI Deepfake Abuse Targets Women Globally as Legal, Platform Responses Lag

Rise of AI Deepfake Abuse Targets Women Globally as Legal, Platform Responses Lag
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The rapid spread of AI-generated “deepfake” content is driving a surge in online abuse, disproportionately targeting women and girls, while legal systems and technology platforms struggle to respond effectively.

Deepfakes—digitally manipulated images, audio, or videos—are increasingly being used for harassment and exploitation. Studies show that 98 per cent of deepfake videos online are pornographic, with 99 per cent depicting women, and overall prevalence rising sharply in recent years. The tools to create such content are widely accessible and require minimal technical expertise, enabling rapid and widespread distribution.

Experts say victims face significant barriers in seeking justice. Many cases go unreported due to stigma and fear, while those that are pursued often expose survivors to further trauma during investigations and legal proceedings. Even when laws exist, enforcement remains limited due to jurisdictional challenges, lack of technical resources, and difficulties in tracking anonymous perpetrators.

Technology platforms have also been criticized for slow responses and inconsistent content removal, leaving victims to attempt to track and report harmful material themselves.

Advocates are calling for stronger legislation, improved law enforcement capacity, greater accountability for tech companies, and expanded support systems for survivors to address the growing global crisis.