Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and seven Democratic colleagues are demanding answers from major tech and social media companies over the spread of non-consensual, sexualized AI-generated images online, according to a letter sent this week to industry leaders.
The senators wrote to the heads of Alphabet, Meta, X, TikTok, Snap, and Reddit, warning that generative AI tools are being used to create and distribute fake sexualized images of people without their consent, including images involving minors.
Gillibrand said reports show some AI platforms were generating non-consensual sexualized images at a rapid pace, raising concerns that the content may violate federal laws governing child sexual abuse material and non-consensual intimate imagery.
“Americans should be able to post images of themselves and their children online without fear of fake, sexualized images being produced by bullies and pedophiles,” Gillibrand said. She called on platforms to stop their AI tools from being used to harass, exploit, and endanger people.
The senators cited reporting that users have used AI tools to digitally alter photos of fully clothed women into sexualized images and shared tips online to bypass safety filters. They also pointed to cases where AI-generated images depicting what appear to be underage girls circulated widely and drew engagement despite platform bans.
The letter asks companies to explain how they define and enforce policies around deepfakes and non-consensual sexual imagery, including content that is suggestive but not nude. The senators also requested details on technical safeguards, detection systems, monetization controls, user penalties, and victim notification practices.
Lawmakers set a deadline of Jan. 29 for companies to respond and formally requested that all records related to the creation, moderation, and monetization of non-consensual AI-generated sexual images be preserved.
Gillibrand said protecting privacy and safety online, especially for women and minors, requires action from platforms and policymakers alike. She said she will continue pushing for stronger accountability as AI tools become more powerful and widespread.
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