The rise of deepfake porn and its impact on society

In the modern era, artificial intelligence (AI) has left an indelible mark on almost every aspect of our lives, from healthcare to automobiles. However, this technology has also opened the door to more sophisticated forms of online exploitation and violence, especially against women. Deepfakes are a perfect example of how AI can be used for malicious purposes. These are videos or images manipulated by AI algorithms to look realistic. Although anyone is vulnerable to being a victim of deepfakes, women are the main victims. According to a study by Deeptrace, eight of the top ten pornography websites include deepfake content.

Technology has advanced so far that it is now more difficult than ever to distinguish between the real and the fake. This raises serious ethical and legal concerns. For example, what happens when a fake image is used to defame someone, or if it is used in a legal context as false evidence? Furthermore, deepfakes can also be used to create fake news and propaganda, which could have serious implications for democracy and social stability.

Notorious Cases and the Public Debate

Celebrities such as Rosalía, Blanca Suarez and Scarlett Johansson have been victims of this new form of online violence. In Rosalía's case, a manipulated photo of her was widely circulated on the internet, sparking a debate about consent and gender-based violence. Such acts not only violate the victims' right to honour and personal privacy, but also raise serious ethical and legal questions.

Actresses such as Amaia Salamanca, singers such as Laura Pausini, presenters such as Cristina Pedroche and even politicians such as Inés Arrimadas would be starring, without their consent and without their permission, adult sexual content. A fingerprint which in many cases they are not even aware of.

The impact of these cases goes beyond celebrities and affects society at large. It generates an atmosphere of distrust and fear, where people feel increasingly insecure about their online presence. In addition, these cases have also opened a public debate on the need for stricter regulations and laws that can effectively address this problem. Human rights organisations and feminist groups have been lobbying for legal action against the creation and distribution of deepfakes that exploit and objectify women.

Legal implications and potential solutions to deepfakes

Although the dissemination of a manipulated photo is not specifically criminalised in the Penal Code In Spain, there are legal provisions that could be applied. The European Parliament has underlined the need to establish laws to punish such manipulations. In Spain, members of the government have warned of the need to introduce new legal measures to address this problem.

However, legislation alone is not enough. It is also crucial that technological innovations are accompanied by ethical responsibility on the part of AI companies. They must implement stricter security measures to prevent misuse of their technology. In addition, education and public awareness are essential to curb the spread of this type of content. Schools and universities should include AI ethics in their curricula to educate the next generation about the dangers and responsibilities associated with this technology.

AI has opened a Pandora's box of possibilities, both positive and negative. While we enjoy the benefits of this technology, we must also be aware of its dangers and work together to find effective solutions. The key is to balance technological innovation with ethics and social responsibility, to create a future in which technology serves as a tool for good, rather than a weapon for evil.