AI Nudify Apps Fuel Surge in Non-Consensual Deepfake Content
Cybersecurity experts warn over the rapid rise of AI Nudify applications creating non-consensual intimate images. Studies show millions of monthly visitors to deepfake sites, prompting strict legal and removal warnings.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence brings not only unprecedented opportunities but also alarming new dangers. Today, an ordinary clothed photograph of an individual, even one they uploaded themselves to social media, can be used to generate a fake nude image or a sexually explicit video that looks completely real.
The Threat of Nudify Apps
Using tools known as Nudify or strip-down applications, intimate content can be produced without the knowledge or consent of the person depicted, and without hacking their account or obtaining private photos.
This phenomenon has already reached educational institutions. In April 2025, a middle school student in Herzliya was suspected of collecting photos of female students and a teacher from social media, processing them via artificial intelligence to appear naked, and distributing them under a pseudonym. The affected individuals reported the incident to the school administration, and the case was referred to professional authorities in the municipality and the Ministry of Education.
ESET Security Warnings
Cybersecurity firm ESET has issued a new warning regarding this expanding phenomenon. Experts explain that these fake images can be used for harassment, humiliation, cyberbullying, and even extortion. "The fact that the image was generated using AI rather than captured in reality does not make the harm any less severe," says Alex Steinberg, ESET product manager at Comsec. He warns that once an image is distributed to friends, family, or the workplace, the damage can be significant and hard to stop.
Industry data highlights the massive scale of this ecosystem. A study by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, supported by the UK AI Security Institute, identified 181 websites offering fake intimate image generation services. According to the research, these sites collectively attracted over 40 million unique monthly visitors. Millions of additional visits originated from social media platforms, including YouTube and X.
Legislation and Protection
Concerns are especially acute regarding teenagers. A July 2026 study by Common Sense Media surveyed 1,314 American teens aged 13 to 17, revealing that 44% had already been exposed to AI-generated sexual content. Nearly a quarter of those exposed encountered content depicting themselves or someone they know.
Under Israeli law, the unauthorized distribution of intimate images or videos, including those generated by AI, may constitute a violation of the Law for Prevention of Sexual Harassment, known as the 'Video Law'. The maximum penalty reaches up to five years of imprisonment. Furthermore, anyone who merely forwards such an image can face criminal liability.
Victims are advised to preserve evidence, report to the police, and utilize specialized services to remove unauthorized intimate images from major platforms. Requests can also be submitted to Google to remove deepfakes from search results, while minors in Israel can contact the 105 cyber hotline for assistance.
