David Linden

The committee has launched its inquiry due to the increasing use of AI-generated intimate images, the harms experienced by victims, and the challenges these offences can present for the criminal justice system.

While AI technologies are creating new ways to produce and distribute intimate images, many of the harms experienced by victims arise from the non-consensual creation, sharing and use of those images.

The committee’s inquiry will examine:

• the impact on victims;
• whether existing laws and powers are adequate;
• and how effectively offences can be reported, investigated and prosecuted in practice.

The committee’s inquiry is not intended to be a broader examination of AI, social media regulation or online harms in general. Instead, it will focus on the specific harms arising from AI-generated intimate image abuse, the impact on victims, and the criminal justice response. 

The committee is seeking views from individuals who have been directly affected by AI-generated intimate image abuse or deepfake pornography.

It will also seek views from organisations, academics, practitioners and other professionals working in this field.

Criminal Justice committee convener, David Linden MSP, said: “Our committee is deeply concerned by the rapid rise of non-consensual AI-generated intimate images and deepfake pornography which cause huge distress to victims.

“We want to hear directly from those who have been affected so that victims’ experiences are at the centre of our work. We will also consider whether existing laws and powers are adequate, and how effectively offences can be reported, investigated and prosecuted.

“AI image abuse and deepfakes can have a devastating impact on victims and are a growing form of technology-facilitated abuse. Evidence indicates that these harms disproportionately affect women and girls, but it can affect anyone, and the impact requires a strong response from the criminal justice system.

“Our committee is determined to find out what more can be done to support victims and ensure perpetrators face the consequences of their actions.”