In recent years, there has been a rapid advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly in the field of generative adversarial networks (GANs). GANs are a type of deep learning algorithm that can generate highly realistic synthetic media, including images, audio, and video. One concerning application of this technology has been the creation of AI-generated pornographic and nude imagery.

While generative AI has many positive use cases, like creating original artworks, the ability to generate explicit and pornographic imagery raises important ethical questions. As these GAN algorithms continue to improve in their ability to create photorealistic media, they could be used to spread non-consensual pornographic content or "deepfakes" more easily than ever before. Here, we'll explore the rise of AI-generated porn and deepfakes, their potential societal harms, and how we might mitigate these risks.

The Rise of AI Pornography

Over the past couple of years, a handful of startups have emerged that use GANs to generate custom nude photos and porn videos on demand. Right now there are hundreds of posts available on platforms such as X for example under the banner of “#AIArt” which are hyper realistic AI-generated images, yet pornographic in their nature.

More worryingly, users can upload a photo of a person to certain websites and the AI will undress them or generate an explicit video featuring their likeness performing sexual acts, often referred to as "deepfakes" and all done without consent.

While most mainstream sites have banned this content, it remains accessible on niche sites and filesharing networks. Apps have also appeared that allow users to generate this imagery on their mobile devices rather than relying on a third-party service. It's now easier than ever for anyone to create AI-generated porn featuring real people, often without their consent.