- Sites using AI to fake nude images of women saw 24M visitors in September.
- The non-consensual “undressing” causes distress, but proliferation continues.
- Lawmakers struggle with regulation as public awareness and pressure mount.
A group of websites and apps that use AI to digitally “undress” images of clothed women attracted over 24 million unique visitors in September alone, according to research firm Graphika.
Alarming fake nude images
The platforms allow users to upload photos of fully dressed subjects, which are then processed by algorithms to generate fake nude images without any consent.
Graphika counted 34 such active English-language sites, with related Telegram groups boasting over 1 million members distributing images.
Evolution of Deepfakes
The technology represents an alarming evolution of “deepfakes” — digitally faked pornography typically targeting women, often celebrities or online personalities.
Victims report severe emotional distress and body image issues upon seeing the graphic fake imagery spread without permission.
Referral Link Spam
Graphika warned the increasing accessibility of these platforms will likely lead to further online harm and harassment.
Their analysis found referral link spam marketing the services soared over 2000% this year across social sites.
Public Awareness
As AI capabilities advance, the non-consensual use of this technology signals an uphill battle around privacy and women’s rights online.
Lawmakers have struggled with regulation, but public awareness and pressure continue to mount.
