UK Moves to Ban Nudify Apps: What About India?

The United Kingdom is taking significant steps to ban "nudify" apps that misuse generative AI to create non-consensual nude images. This alarming trend has raised concerns about online safety, particularly for women and girls. As part of a broader strategy to combat online violence, the UK government has proposed new laws that seek to make it illegal to develop and distribute tools designed to remove clothing from images. This initiative aims to address the rising instances of harassment and reputational damage caused by such deepfake technology.

In India, the situation is similarly pressing. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 already require social media platforms to take down AI-generated deepfakes within 36 hours of a court order or government notice. Recent draft amendments propose that platforms must identify and label AI-generated content, ensuring transparency for users. This initiative reflects India's commitment to tackling the misuse of technology while balancing digital rights and safety.

Both countries recognize the need for urgent action against the misuse of AI technologies. In the UK, Liz Kendall, the technology secretary, emphasized that women deserve to be safe online and that the government would not tolerate the weaponization of technology against them. This sentiment resonates in India, as advocates push for more stringent measures to protect individuals from non-consensual imagery.

Digital rights advocates warn that while legislation is necessary, there are risks of overreach. They caution that tools designed to detect and remove explicit content could potentially be misused to censor other forms of expression. It is crucial for policymakers in both nations to navigate these challenges carefully to ensure that protections do not infringe upon freedom of speech.

As technology continues to evolve, the need for adaptive legal frameworks becomes increasingly important. The UK's proactive approach to banning "nudify" apps sets a precedent that India can learn from. By reinforcing existing laws and introducing new regulations, India can strengthen protections for its citizens in the digital age, ensuring that technology is used ethically and responsibly.