In an alarming warning that every parent should heed, the National Crime Agency (NCA) has cautioned against the public sharing of children’s photographs due to an increase in AI-generated abuse imagery. In collaboration with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), the NCA highlighted that the proliferation of online images of children poses significant risks, particularly as these images can be manipulated to create disturbing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The Growing Threat of AI-Generated Imagery
A staggering statistic reveals that over 8,000 AI-generated images and videos depicting realistic child sexual abuse were flagged by the IWF in 2025 alone, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. “While we and policing colleagues tackle offenders, prevention remains vital,” asserted Tim Wright, a senior manager at the NCA.
This surge in AI misuse is particularly troubling. The IWF reported that the number of AI-generated videos of child sexual abuse skyrocketed from just 13 in 2024 to a shocking 3,440 in 2025. Such images fall under the classification of CSAM in the UK, prompting government action to combat these threats. This includes the prohibition of so-called “nudification” apps and legislative adjustments aimed at fortifying safeguards against the production of CSAM by AI firms.
Essential Guidance for Parents
In light of these serious concerns, the NCA and IWF have released essential guidance for parents, aimed at helping them navigate the complexities of online safety for their children. “Hearing about this as a parent or carer can feel alarming, but you are not alone,” reads the guidance. “It’s important to know there are steps you can take, many of which you may already be doing, to help better protect your child.”
The guidance outlines three critical actions for parents to consider:
– **Review Privacy Settings:** Most social media platforms feature privacy controls that allow users to limit the visibility of their posts. It’s wise to explore these settings or consider making accounts private.
– **Check Social Media Accounts:** Parents should periodically review the content shared by themselves and family members. Ensuring that identifying details—such as children’s faces or school uniforms—are not visible in shared images can significantly enhance privacy.
– **Revisit Image Consent:** Engaging in discussions with friends, family, and institutions (like schools or clubs) about the images taken of children is crucial. Parents should also revisit any signed consent forms regarding image usage.
Furthermore, involving children in conversations about how and where their images are taken or shared fosters a sense of agency and comfort, encouraging them to express their preferences.
The Risks of ‘Sharenting’
This latest advisory comes on the heels of ongoing warnings from child safety experts regarding the phenomenon known as “sharenting.” Coined in 2016 and now part of the Collins English Dictionary, this term describes the act of parents sharing photos or videos of their children on social media platforms.
Experts have long cautioned that sharenting can expose children to a myriad of risks, such as identity theft, fraud, and loss of privacy as they mature. The emergence of sophisticated AI tools capable of manipulating images adds a new layer of concern. These tools can digitally alter photographs, making it appear as if clothing has been removed, thus posing serious risks.
Kerry Smith, the head of the IWF, emphasised the importance of making informed decisions when sharing children’s images. “We don’t want to say don’t share your children’s images with the people you love and trust, but we want everyone to be aware of the potential risks and make an informed decision with the full facts at their disposal,” she stated. “These are not hypothetical threats; they are real.”
Why it Matters
As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats it poses, particularly to our youngest and most vulnerable. The conversation around digital safety is more crucial than ever. This guidance isn’t just a precaution; it’s a call to action for parents to protect their children in an increasingly digital world. By taking these simple yet effective steps, guardians can minimise risks and ensure that their children’s digital footprint is safe and secure, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their safety.