Police Launch Probe in Valencia After 16 Girls Report Deepfake Images
Spanish authorities have launched an investigation into a 17-year-old student in the Valencia region after 16 female classmates reported the circulation of
AI-generated deepfake nude images of themselves on social media and online platforms[1][2][3][4].
How the Case Unfolded
- The case first came to light in December when a teenage girl filed a complaint with police, stating that an
AI-generated video and faked photos depicting her "completely naked" had been uploaded to a social media account created in her name[2][3][4].
- As more victims came forward, investigators traced the creation of fake accounts to IP addresses linked to the teenage suspect's home[1][3][4].
- Authorities believe real photographs of the girls were manipulated using advanced AI tools to produce false explicit content. The suspect is alleged to have posted and possibly offered this content for sale online[1][2][3][4].
Legal and Social Implications
The young man under investigation faces charges of "corruption of minors."[2][3][4] Police and government officials have expressed concern over the serious consequences of
deepfake technology, particularly when it targets minors.
This is not the first such incident in Spain. In September 2023, 15 minors in Extremadura were investigated for making similar
deepfake images and received probation sentences[2].
Legislative Response and Calls for Regulation
The Spanish government announced plans in March to introduce legislation that would criminalize the creation of sexually explicit, non-consensual images using artificial intelligence. If passed, the law would be among the first in Europe to specifically address such offenses[2][3][4]. However, the bill is still awaiting approval by parliament.
Officials are urging faster regulation and increased public awareness to help protect privacy and prevent digital exploitation, especially of minors, in light of the growing misuse of
AI technology[1][3][4].
