Deepfake pornography on the rise
In the age of advanced technology, our lives are increasingly interconnected with the digital world. While this connectivity has brought about numerous benefits, it has also paved the way for emerging threats, one of which is the disturbing rise of deepfake pornography. A study carried out in 2019, when deepfaking wasn’t as common knowledge as it is now, showed that 96% of deepfake material discovered online was pornographic.
This new technology has popularised a new form of image-based sexual abuse in the UK, with at least 60% of all revenge pornography victims being women (UK Council for Internet Safety). ESET research looks into the awareness and attitudes toward deepfakes in the UK and how the attitudes differ between sexes.
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PERCEIVED RISK
ESET’s Think Twice research revealed that 39% of individuals believe deepfake pornography poses a significant risk associated with sending intimate photos or videos. This highlights a growing awareness of the potential dangers lurking in the digital shadows. The survey reveals a significant difference between sexes, with 61% of women reporting concern about being a victim of it compared to less than half (45%) of men.
PERCEIVED RISK
ESET’s Think Twice research revealed that 39% of individuals believe deepfake pornography poses a significant risk associated with sending intimate photos or videos. This highlights a growing awareness of the potential dangers lurking in the digital shadows. The survey reveals a significant difference between sexes, with 61% of women reporting concern about being a victim of it compared to less than half (45%) of men.
RECKLESS SHARING
Shockingly, 31% of respondents admitted to sharing these photos or videos with their faces visible. Driven by trust and intimacy, this action then opens up the opportunity for this material to be manipulated in multiple ways.
RECKLESS SHARING
Shockingly, 31% of respondents admitted to sharing these photos or videos with their faces visible. Driven by trust and intimacy, this action then opens up the opportunity for this material to be manipulated in multiple ways.
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WOMEN MORE LIKELY TO BE EXPLOITED
A third (33%) of all women surveyed reported that explicit images shared have been misused. Of these, a quarter (25%) were threatened with posting these images, and 28% have had their photos posted publicly without permission. Although progress in tackling this issue has been made with the Online Safety Act, women are still reluctant to seek help, with just 28% saying they would go to the police if someone misused their images online.
WOMEN MORE LIKELY TO BE EXPLOITED
A third (33%) of all women surveyed reported that explicit images shared have been misused. Of these, a quarter (25%) were threatened with posting these images, and 28% have had their photos posted publicly without permission. Although progress in tackling this issue has been made with the Online Safety Act, women are still reluctant to seek help, with just 28% saying they would go to the police if someone misused their images online.
REGRETTABLE CHOICES
A staggering 58% of people regret sending an intimate photo. This regret highlights people's vulnerability after sharing personal content, especially when faced with the potential consequences of misuse and exploitation.
REGRETTABLE CHOICES
A staggering 58% of people regret sending an intimate photo. This regret highlights people's vulnerability after sharing personal content, especially when faced with the potential consequences of misuse and exploitation.
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VICTIMS OF DEEPFAKE PORNOGRAPHY
A significant 9% have fallen victim to deepfake pornography. These individuals have experienced the horrifying invasion of their privacy, as technology is used to manipulate their likeness into explicit and malicious content.
VICTIMS OF DEEPFAKE PORNOGRAPHY
A significant 9% have fallen victim to deepfake pornography. These individuals have experienced the horrifying invasion of their privacy, as technology is used to manipulate their likeness into explicit and malicious content.
Widespread concern
Half of those surveyed express genuine concern about becoming a victim of deepfake pornography. This widespread apprehension suggests a growing awareness of the threat and an urgent need for more understanding of how people can protect themselves.
As technology continues to advance, deepfake pornography is likely to persist, posing a threat to people’s privacy and well-being. By acknowledging the risks, promoting digital literacy, and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves, we can help create a safer and more secure digital landscape for all.
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