UK Implements New Law to Combat Deepfake Abuse

By Ivan PetrenkoApr 18, 2024 05:30 AMNews
Share:
Symbolic courtroom setting with a gavel, digital screen displaying a pixelated face, and legal documents on a judge's bench
Symbolic courtroom setting with a gavel, digital screen displaying a pixelated face, and legal documents on a judge's bench. Source: dall-e

The UK government has introduced a stringent law to combat the creation of sexually explicit deepfake images, a move announced on April 16, 2024. This legislation marks a significant step in addressing the malicious creation and distribution of these hyper-realistic images without the consent of the individuals depicted.

The new law specifies that anyone who produces sexually explicit deepfakes with the intent to cause distress, alarm, or humiliation, even without plans for distribution, will face prosecution. Offenders risk a criminal record, an unlimited fine, and potential imprisonment if the images are disseminated.

Deepening Legal Frameworks Against Digital Abuse

Deepfake technology has seen a dramatic increase in prevalence, with such content being viewed millions of times globally each month. The UK's legal amendment strengthens existing laws by making the creation of these images a standalone offence, potentially leading to cumulative charges if the content is also shared, thereby increasing the severity of penalties.

This legislation builds on last year's reforms under the Online Safety Act, which first criminalised the sharing of deepfake intimate images. The new offence, integrated into the Criminal Justice Bill, underlines the government's commitment to enhancing the legal protection against digital sexual abuse.

Broadening Safeguards for Women and Girls

Laura Farris, Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, emphasised that the creation of such material is an egregious act that degrades and dehumanises, particularly targeting women. The government's broader agenda includes multiple initiatives aimed at protecting women from both physical and online abuse. This includes making violence against women and girls a national threat requiring prioritised police response, similar to measures against terrorism.

Moreover, the Criminal Justice Bill is set to introduce additional measures, such as making the non-consensual taking or recording of intimate images a criminal offence, further tightening the net around digital and physical abuses.

Public and Expert Reaction

Public figures and organisations have expressed strong support for these measures. Cally Jane Beech, a former reality TV contestant and advocate, highlighted the personal and widespread impact of deepfake abuse. Meanwhile, GLAMOUR's European Editorial Director, Deborah Joseph, welcomed the move, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures in digital spaces.

The announcement of this law comes as part of a series of legislative steps designed to combat the evolving challenges of digital abuse, demonstrating the UK government's resolve to address these modern threats comprehensively.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Eurowings aircraft approaching landing with extended landing gear

New Flight Options from Berlin: Eurowings and BER Connect to Four More Cities

Apr 30, 2025 14:36 PM
Modern hotel room with large windows, double bed, and a sofa

Radisson Blu Opens Eco-Friendly Hotel in Ha Long Bay

Apr 30, 2025 03:37 AM

beOnd Adds 18 Direct Routes to the Maldives, Cutting Layovers

Apr 29, 2025 21:24 PM

UK Railways Gear Up for Winter with New Fleet to Tackle Seasonal Delays

Apr 29, 2025 19:32 PM
AirAsia aircraft being prepared on airport tarmac under cloudy sky

AirAsia Expands Flexibility with Paid Cancellation Options

Apr 29, 2025 17:48 PM
A vehicle entering Serengeti National Park through main gate in Tanzania

Marriott to Open First Safari Camp in Tanzania’s Serengeti Blending Nature and Infrastructure

Apr 29, 2025 15:53 PM
People with luggage walking through a modern airport terminal with electronic signs and escalators

Edinburgh Airport Cuts Security Time with New Scanners

Apr 29, 2025 13:56 PM
Elegant hotel room with large bed and modern decor

Batumi's Tourism Scene Expands with the Arrival of La Quinta Hotel

Apr 29, 2025 04:47 AM
A person walking into London Euston Station entrance

Travel Disruptions Expected as Euston Station Closes

Apr 29, 2025 02:31 AM

Finnair to Lay Off Pilots and Cut Long-Haul Routes Amid Ongoing Strikes

Apr 28, 2025 23:29 PM

flydubai Expands Seasonal Summer Flights to 11 Destinations

Apr 28, 2025 21:36 PM
Bright hotel room with large bed, modern decor, and open bathroom view

New SIRO Boka Place Brings Active Travel to Montenegro’s Coast

Apr 28, 2025 19:53 PM
Railway tracks diverging under streetlights at sunset

Major Disruptions Expected on Britain’s Railways Over May Bank Holidays

Apr 28, 2025 17:28 PM
Emirates Boeing 777 taxiing at Dubai Airport with city skyline in background

New Travel Opportunities as Emirates Expands 2025 Flight Network

Apr 28, 2025 15:34 PM
Railway track stretching through open fields at sunset in the Scottish Highlands

Flow Country Becomes a New Travel Destination in Scotland

Apr 27, 2025 23:25 PM

Air India Eases Transfers and Refreshes Cabins for Smoother Journeys

Apr 27, 2025 19:33 PM

Easier Journeys Ahead: Belgrade–Geneva Flights Resume in 2025

Apr 26, 2025 13:47 PM
Northern Lights over snowy coastline

A New Nordic Journey: What Travelers Can Expect from the North

Apr 26, 2025 11:34 AM
United Airlines aircraft taking off from airport runway

Fewer Stopovers: Edinburgh–D.C. Route Gets Winter Boost

Apr 26, 2025 09:23 AM
Aerial view of Tenerife Beach with a vast sandy shore and calm waters

Europe’s Beaches in 2025: What’s Worth Your Trip This Summer?

Apr 26, 2025 06:49 AM
Woman holding megaphone at a public protest during a strike

Belgian Airports Brace for Major Disruptions as Nationwide Strike Causes Flight Cancellations

Apr 26, 2025 03:35 AM
Amtrak passenger train at station platform

Amtrak Announces New Route Linking Gulf Coast Cities

Apr 25, 2025 23:38 PM

Avani+ Fujairah Resort to Open in 2028, Expanding Travel Options in UAE

Apr 25, 2025 21:46 PM

Travelers in Jakarta Get New Emirates Service Center

Apr 25, 2025 19:21 PM
A hotel room with a bed near a window, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere

New Budget-Friendly Super 8 Hotels to Open Across Spain and Portugal

Apr 25, 2025 17:37 PM
Air France aircraft preparing to land

Air France Expands In-Flight Entertainment With CANAL+ Content From May 2025

Apr 25, 2025 15:45 PM