In a move to combat the rise of deepfake technology and protect children from exploitation, Louisiana is set to implement a groundbreaking law criminalizing the production and possession of deepfakes depicting the sexual abuse of minors. The law, known as Senate Bill 175 (SB175), was signed into effect by Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards and will take effect on August 1.
Under the new legislation, individuals found guilty of creating, distributing, or possessing illicit deepfake images involving minors could face severe penalties. Offenders may be sentenced to a mandatory five to 20 years in prison, fined up to $10,000, or both. The stern measures highlight the state’s commitment to safeguarding its most vulnerable citizens.
Deepfakes, which are AI-generated videos that manipulate and fabricate the appearance of individuals, places, and events, have become an increasing concern for both cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies. With advancements in artificial intelligence, the detection of deepfakes has become more challenging, posing a significant threat to public safety and the integrity of online content.
Louisiana’s decision to criminalize deepfake child sexual abuse images aligns it with several other states that have taken similar steps to regulate or outlaw deepfakes. California, Texas, and Virginia are among the states that have already implemented legislation to address this emerging issue.
SB175 encompasses additional provisions aimed at combatting online platforms and sites that host “revenge porn.” The law stipulates that individuals who knowingly advertise, distribute, or sell sexual deepfakes without the consent of the person involved or featuring a minor could face mandatory sentences of 10 to 30 years in prison, fines of up to $50,000, or both. This further emphasizes Louisiana’s commitment to protecting individuals from nonconsensual dissemination of intimate images.
In a move reminiscent of the state’s historical association with hard labor, Louisiana lawmakers included a notable provision in the new law. All sentences issued under SB175 will require individuals to perform “hard labor” during their incarceration. This clause serves as a strong deterrent and underscores the seriousness with which the state regards the production and dissemination of deepfake child sexual abuse materials.
The introduction of this groundbreaking legislation reflects Louisiana’s determination to combat the proliferation of deepfakes and protect its children from exploitation. As deepfake technology continues to advance, it is crucial for governments, law enforcement agencies, and society as a whole to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to address this growing threat.
With SB175, Louisiana has emerged as a frontrunner in the fight against deepfakes, setting an example for other states to follow in safeguarding vulnerable individuals and upholding the principles of justice and child protection.
Source: Decrypt
