Trump signs bill criminalizing nonsensenual AI deepfake porn

President Donald Trump signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act (Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks) into law on May 19th, criminalizing the nonconsensual creation and distribution of AI-generated deepfake pornography. This bipartisan bill, championed by First Lady Melania Trump, represents a significant step in combating the misuse of artificial intelligence for harmful purposes.

The act establishes a federal crime for publishing, or threatening to publish, nonconsensual intimate images – including deepfakes – of adults or minors with the intent to cause harm or harassment. Penalties range from substantial fines to imprisonment. The legislation directly addresses the growing concern surrounding deepfakes, particularly their use in creating and disseminating non-consensual pornography.

A key provision of the TAKE IT DOWN Act mandates that websites, online services, and apps remove illegal content within 48 hours of notification and establish clear takedown processes. This rapid response mechanism aims to limit the spread of harmful deepfake material. President Trump, in remarks delivered at the White House Rose Garden and shared on Truth Social, emphasized the bill’s coverage of “forgeries generated by artificial intelligence.”

Melania Trump actively lobbied for the bill’s passage, calling its enactment a “national victory.” She highlighted the potential for AI and social media to be weaponized, impacting children’s cognitive development and emotional well-being. The bill, introduced by Senators Ted Cruz and Amy Klobuchar in June 2024 and passed by both houses in April, builds upon existing efforts to combat online harassment and abuse.

The United States joins other countries, such as the UK, in criminalizing the sharing of deepfake pornography. This legislation follows a significant rise in cases involving the malicious use of deepfakes, including a high-profile incident involving pop star Taylor Swift. A 2023 report by Security Hero underscored the prevalence of pornographic deepfakes online, with 99% of victims being women. The TAKE IT DOWN Act signifies a proactive approach to regulating AI technology and protecting individuals from the harms of non-consensual deepfake imagery.