U.S. Moves to Combat Deepfake Pornography with the Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act

Representative Joe Morrell is introducing the Deepfakes Prevention of Intimate Images Act, a bipartisan bill criminalizing the creation and distribution of non-consensual deep fake pornography, primarily affecting women and girls.

U.S. Rep. Joe Morrell has taken step to combat the spread of deep fake pornography by introducing the Deep Fake Intimate Images Prevention Act, HR 3106. This bipartisan legislation aims to address the growing problem of deep fake pornography generated through AIwith special emphasis on its broad impact on women and girls.

The law is a response to the alarming trend where 96 percent of all deep fakes are pornographic, almost exclusively targeting women. The damage caused by these images, while fake, has profound real-world consequences. In advocating for this legislation, Morell, along with victims of deepfakes and other supporters, emphasized the urgent need for federal action to provide protection and legal protection against this form of exploitation.

A key aspect of the bill is its focus on the non-existent nature of these deepfakes. It criminalizes the non-consensual disclosure of intimate deep fakes intended to harass, injure or distress the victim. Proposed penalties are significant, including fines and imprisonment, with stiffer penalties for disclosing information that could affect government functions or facilitate violence.

In addition, the legislation would give victims the right to file civil lawsuits against the creators and distributors of non-consensual deep fakes while remaining anonymous. This approach aims to offer a more comprehensive form of justice for victims, allowing them to seek monetary damages and punitive measures against perpetrators.

The move by Rep. Morel is part of a broader conversation about the ethical use of AI and the need for legal frameworks to keep pace with technological advances. The bill also emphasizes the need to ensure that artificial intelligence and technology are not used to perpetuate harm, especially against vulnerable groups such as women and minors. The introduction of this law highlights the growing awareness and concern about the potential abuse of AI in creating deep fakes and the need for strong laws to prevent such abuse​​​​​​

Image source: Shutterstock

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