Creating a sexually explicit “deepfake” image will be criminalized under a new law, the Ministry of Justice has announced.
Under the legislation, anyone who creates such an image without consent will face a criminal record and an unlimited fine. They could also face jail time if the image is shared more widely.
Creating a deepfake image will be a crime regardless of whether the creator intended to share it, the department said. The Online Safety Act, introduced last year, has already criminalized the sharing of fake intimate images, the creation of which is being made easier by advances in artificial intelligence.
The offense will be introduced through an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill, which is pending in Parliament. Laura Farris, Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, said the creation of deepfake sexual images was “unacceptable, regardless of whether the image is shared”.
“It is another example of the ways in which certain people seek to degrade and dehumanize others, especially women. And it has the capacity to cause catastrophic consequences if the material is shared more widely. This government will not tolerate it.
“This new crime sends a very clear message that producing this material is immoral, often misogynistic and a crime.”
Yvette Cooper, the The shadow home secretary supported the announcement, saying: “It is welcome that the government has accepted Labor calls to criminalize the creation of deepfake pornography. Superimposing someone’s image on sexually explicit photographs and videos is a serious violation of their autonomy and privacy, which can cause enormous harm and should not be tolerated.
“It is essential that police and prosecutors are equipped with the training and tools necessary to rigorously enforce these laws to prevent perpetrators from acting with impunity.”
Deborah Joseph, editor-in-chief of Glamor UK, welcomed the planned amendment.
“In a recent Glamor survey, we found that 91% of our readers believe deepfake technology poses a threat to women’s safety, and by hearing personal stories from victims, we also know how serious the impact can be,” said.
“While this is an important first step, there is still a long way to go before women truly feel safe from this horrendous activity.”