The NewsWorthy Special Edition: ‘Deepfake Nudes’ - A New Threat to Our Kids
May 3, 2025
Melissa Strobel, Vice President of Research and Insights at Thorn, discusses the alarming rise of deepfake nudes involving minors. She reveals that one in eight teens knows someone impacted by this disturbing trend, leading to serious emotional trauma and bullying. The conversation highlights the urgent need for open communication between parents and children. Strobel also discusses the Take It Down Act and the importance of community awareness, tech companies' roles in safeguarding youth, and legislative efforts to combat this issue.
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Prevalence of Deepfake Nudes
- One in eight teens know someone targeted by deepfake nudes, and one in 17 have experienced it themselves.
- Though the number seems small, this issue likely affects every community and many young people in real life.
Rise of AI-Generated Nude Images
- Generative AI technology is widely accessible and already used by teens to create fake explicit images.
- One in ten teens knew peers who used AI to generate nudes just a year ago, highlighting rapid growth of this disturbing trend.
Consequences of Deepfake Abuse
- Deepfake nudes cause real harm through widespread bullying and fear, despite their synthetic origin.
- They are used for coercion and extortion, leading to severe consequences for victims.