East Derry MLA targeted by deepfake video says NI can't be 'left behind on AI regulation'
An MLA who was the target of a deepfake video has said Northern Ireland has to follow the UK government’s new laws to crack down on the AI creation of explicit images.
SDLP East Derry MLA Cara Hunter was targeted in a deepfake video four years ago, when her face was digitally superimposed on to the face of another person.
Ms Hunter has now called for action similar to that taken by Technology Secretary Liz Kendall who has said that creating or trying to create an intimate non-consensual image will be an offence from this week.
Apps allowing users to create these images will also be criminalised under the Crime and Policing Bill.
MLA Hunter said: “For far too long, people online have been allowed to create explicit images of women and children without their consent, hiding behind anonymity while platforms fail to take responsibility for the content they host.
"It’s regrettable that it has taken thousands of victims to prompt action, but I am glad this issue is getting the attention it demands.
“The North must act quickly to follow suit. I welcome the Justice Minister’s pledge to make these offences illegal, but we need to see quick action and a timeline for introducing this here – we cannot be left behind.
"We have seen all too often at Stormont that passing the most basic legislation takes far too long and that promises from Ministers go unfulfilled.
“We need to get serious about tackling online harm and I will continue to use my voice and platform to fight for victims. I am glad to see governments waking up to it at long last.”