My Child’s Image Was Deepfaked: What to Do in Australia
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence brings both innovation and new challenges. One of the most alarming is the creation of deepfake content, particularly when it involves children. If you find an AI-generated image or video of your child online without consent, it's a profound violation. This guide outlines the immediate actions you can take in Australia to report the content and seek its removal, helping you navigate this difficult situation with clear, practical steps.
Prioritise Your Child's Well-being and Gather Evidence
Your child's emotional well-being is paramount. Reassure them that this is not their fault and that you are there to support them. It's crucial to acknowledge their feelings and provide a safe space for them to talk without judgment. Consider seeking professional counselling if they are significantly impacted by the incident.
Before attempting any takedown, meticulously gather all available evidence. This includes screenshots, links to the deepfake content, usernames, and any other identifying information about where it was posted and by whom. The more information you have, the stronger your case will be when reporting to platforms and authorities. Ensure you save this evidence securely, perhaps by taking photos of your screen or using screen recording software.
Reporting to the eSafety Commissioner
In Australia, the eSafety Commissioner is the world's first government agency dedicated to keeping its citizens safer online, with strong powers to protect children. If your child is under 18 and the deepfake content is abusive or appears to be a seriously harmful deepfake, the eSafety Commissioner is the primary authority to contact.
They can investigate and work with social media companies and other online platforms to have harmful content removed. You can lodge a report directly on their website. Provide all the evidence you have collected, and be as detailed as possible in your submission. eSafety has a dedicated team equipped to handle such sensitive cases and understands the urgency involved.
Steps to report to eSafety Commissioner:
- Visit the eSafety Commissioner website.
- Navigate to the 'Report now' section.
- Select the relevant category, such as 'Image-based abuse' or 'Seriously harmful deepfake'.
- Fill out the online form with all details and evidence.
- Keep a record of your report submission number.
Reporting to Platforms and Service Providers
Simultaneously with reporting to the eSafety Commissioner, you should report the deepfake content directly to the platform where it is hosted (e.g., social media sites, image hosts, video platforms). Most reputable platforms have strict policies against harmful content, including deepfakes, and explicit child safety guidelines. Look for their 'report content' or 'community standards' sections.
Identify the platform's specific reporting mechanism for image-based abuse, child exploitation material, or violations of terms of service. Be prepared to explain why the content violates their policies and include your gathered evidence. Follow up if you don't receive a timely response. KNOMI can assist you in navigating these complex reporting pathways, ensuring you're taking the most effective steps for content removal.
Considering Law Enforcement and Legal Options
If the deepfake content of your child depicts sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or child abuse material, it constitutes a serious criminal offence. In such cases, you must report it immediately to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) or your state or territory police. Provide them with all the evidence you have gathered. The police have the authority to investigate and pursue legal action against the perpetrator.
Additionally, depending on the nature and harm caused by the deepfake, you might explore legal avenues. While KNOMI cannot provide legal advice, we can guide you on the steps to secure expert legal counsel who can advise on potential defamation, privacy law breaches, or other civil actions available in Australia. This is a complex area, and legal experts can assess your specific situation and options.
Seeking Support and Ongoing Protection
Experiencing a deepfake incident involving your child is incredibly stressful. Remember that support is available. Alongside the eSafety Commissioner, organisations like IDCARE offer free, confidential support and guidance for individuals impacted by identity and cyber security incidents. They can provide practical steps and emotional support for families dealing with such a breach.
As part of your ongoing protection, educate yourself and your family about online safety, privacy settings, and the risks of sharing personal information online. Regularly review privacy settings on all accounts and discuss the importance of digital literacy with your children. If another incident occurs, or if you need help navigating the aftermath, remember that when something goes wrong online, KNOMI is who you call, providing expert guidance and support to help restore your peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions
What is a deepfake involving a child?
A deepfake involving a child is an AI-generated image or video that realistically portrays a child doing something they never did, often created without consent and for harmful purposes. This content can be highly distressing and invasive.
Can the eSafety Commissioner really remove deepfakes of children?
Yes, if the content is seriously harmful or constitutes image-based abuse and involves a child under 18, the eSafety Commissioner has powers under Australian law to compel online platforms to remove it. They are a crucial first point of contact.
Should I contact the police for a child deepfake?
Absolutely, if the deepfake content depicts sexual abuse, child exploitation, or illegal activity, you should report it immediately to the Australian Federal Police or your local state/territory police, as this is a severe criminal offence.