Watchdog Warns AI-Generated Child Sexual Abuse Images Are Rapidly Becoming More Realistic

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has reported a dramatic increase in the creation and distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse images, with a 380% rise in illegal content noted in 2024 compared to the previous year. The images are becoming much more realistic, making detection harder even for trained professionals. The UK government is introducing new laws to criminalize the creation, possession, or distribution of AI tools and manuals for generating abusive material. The IWF has launched a free tool, Image Intercept, to help smaller websites detect and block illegal content, aiming to boost child protection online and address evolving technological threats.

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