UK to ban deepfake AI 'nudification' apps (www.bbc.co.uk)

The UK government has announced a ban on "nudification" apps that utilize generative AI to modify images by seemingly removing a person's clothing. This move is part of a broader initiative to combat online misogyny and reduce violence against women and girls, reflecting growing concerns within the AI/ML community about the ethical implications of deepfake technology. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized the need for women and girls to feel safe online, reiterating that existing laws against creating and distributing non-consensual sexually explicit deepfakes will be reinforced. The significance of this ban lies in its potential to curb the misuse of AI for creating harmful content, particularly given expert warnings regarding the risks these apps pose, especially to children. The new legislation will make it illegal to produce or distribute nudifying apps, holding accountable those who profit from or facilitate their use. As the UK collaborates with tech companies like SafeToNet to develop AI-driven solutions for identifying and blocking inappropriate content, this decision represents a crucial step in protecting individuals from intimate image abuse while also urging the tech industry to enhance their protective measures against such exploitation.