The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has brought remarkable advancements, but it has also introduced deeply troubling threats—among them, the creation of AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM). These manipulations, often referred to as “deepfakes,” exploit children and adults alike, turning innocent images into sexually explicit content without consent. Importantly, as Mission Kids highlights, the term “CSAM” is used instead of “child pornography” because it accurately describes the material as abuse and exploitation. Words matter, and this distinction ensures the gravity of these crimes is not diminished.
The Growing Threat
AI-powered tools make it disturbingly easy to create hyper-realistic images and videos. In one alarming case, a Pennsylvania state trooper was recently charged after investigators discovered deepfake pornography on his work computer. This incident highlights how quickly technology can be weaponized for harm, violating the privacy and safety of victims. Similarly, at Lancaster Country Day School, nearly 50 girls learned after the fact that their faces had been used in explicit AI-generated images, underscoring how accessible and widespread this technology has become.
The Role of Legislation and Public Awareness
Pennsylvania’s new law criminalizing AI-generated CSAM, enacted under Act 125 of 2024, officially took effect in October 2024. This law makes it illegal to create, distribute, or possess sexually explicit content involving manipulated, i.e. AI created, images of children. While this legislation is a significant step forward, laws are only as effective as their enforcement. Law enforcement and legal professionals must be equipped with the tools and training necessary to identify, investigate, and prosecute these offenses. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can help educate parents, educators, and children on how to recognize and report potential abuse.
At Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center, we see firsthand the devastating impact of abuse. Emerging threats like AI-generated exploitation demand a united response. Parents and educators must stay vigilant, learning how to protect children from these dangers and encouraging open conversations about the responsible use of technology.
A Call to Action
This is not a problem for tomorrow—it is a crisis today. We must prioritize funding for law enforcement and child welfare professionals’ training, public awareness campaigns, and victim support services. Organizations like Mission Kids are dedicated to illuminating hope and igniting change, but we cannot do it alone. By strengthening enforcement, fostering public awareness, and promoting collaboration across sectors, we can safeguard our children from this new and insidious form of exploitation.
The fight against AI-generated child sexual abuse material is not just a legal issue—it is imperative. Together, we can ensure that advances in technology are used to protect, not exploit, our children.
