New York Takes Strong Action Against Celebrity Deepfake Websites

In a groundbreaking move, the New York District Attorney's office announced on Monday the seizure of 12 websites that hosted AI-generated intimate imagery without consent, predominantly featuring celebrities and public figures. This action is believed to represent the largest seizure of its kind in history.

The DA's office reported that the sites involved the unauthorized use of images from approximately 1,200 individuals, transforming their photos into "hyper-realistic" depictions engaged in sexual acts. Victims included a range of public figures such as politicians, first ladies, entertainers, and social media influencers.

Legal Framework and Ongoing Investigations

New York has been equipped with specific laws targeting sexually explicit deepfakes since 2023. District Attorney Alvin Bragg underscored the importance of these laws during a press conference, stating, "While the victims of these sites are largely celebrities, we know that anyone can be a victim in these crimes." He emphasized the necessity for survivors to report such violations, assuring, "Help is available" for those affected.

Bragg remained tight-lipped about whether images of minors were part of the investigation, highlighting that it remains ongoing.

Encouraging Victim Support and Accountability

The DA's office is actively urging victims of deepfake crimes to reach out to their Cyber Crime Bureau for assistance. In a strong message to the perpetrators, Bragg stated, "What you are doing is a crime. We are investigating… and support survivors in taking down this content and seeking accountability for folks who break the law." This comes in the wake of a broader trend where altered images of women, often public figures, have proliferated on social media, raising significant concerns about privacy and consent.

Source: www.404media.co