Sexual exploitation of children online is a growing concern exacerbated by the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which can facilitate the production of child sexual abuse material. The existing tools to combat this influx of AI-generated child pornography are inadequate, according to a recent report by the Stanford Internet Observatory Cyber Policy Center and experts interviewed by the Deseret News. They emphasize that this is not merely a future threat but a present reality that demands immediate action.
Tori Rousay, corporate advocacy program manager and analyst at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, stated that the issue is no longer imminent but already occurring. Generative AI technology can be employed to produce sexually exploitative images of children, contributing to a disturbing trend. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has received over 82 million reports of child sex abuse material online, raising concerns about the authenticity of the images and the extent of the problem.
Law enforcement faces significant challenges in addressing this issue effectively. While platforms like the CyberTipline play a crucial role in identifying and reporting child sexual abuse material, law enforcement’s capacity to prioritize and investigate these reports is limited. The quality and quantity of tips vary, and technological constraints hinder the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s ability to update its systems.
Moreover, legal complexities further impede efforts to combat AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Court rulings have constrained the center’s collaboration with platforms, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines and increased support for technological enhancements.
The proliferation of AI-generated images poses a serious threat, as they can be indistinguishable from real photos of children. Alex Stamos, a cybersecurity expert at Stanford University, warns that this influx could overwhelm resources and divert attention from actual cases of child abuse.
Tori Rousay emphasizes the harmful impact of AI-generated child sexual abuse material, rejecting the notion that it is harmless because it involves virtual children. She underscores the legal and ethical implications, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures to address this issue.
Experts stress the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Legislative actions, increased funding for enforcement agencies, and technological advancements are essential components of a comprehensive response. Ultimately, a concerted effort from policymakers, tech companies, law enforcement, and society at large is necessary to protect children from this insidious form of exploitation.
