In a world where technology is advancing faster than ever, the National Crime Agency (NCA) has issued a critical warning to parents regarding the sharing of their children’s images online. With the alarming rise of AI-generated abuse material, experts urge caution and proactive measures to safeguard our youngest citizens. This comes as the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) reveals a staggering increase in the creation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) involving AI technology.
Alarming Statistics Highlight the Threat
The IWF’s research paints a troubling picture: in 2025 alone, they identified over 8,000 AI-generated images and videos depicting realistic child sexual abuse, marking a significant 14% increase from the previous year. Tim Wright, a senior manager at the NCA, emphasises the need for preventive measures, stating, “While we and policing colleagues tackle offenders, prevention remains vital.” The data underscores the urgency for parents to reconsider their online sharing habits.
Guidance for Protecting Children
In collaboration with the IWF, the NCA has launched new guidelines aimed at empowering parents to better protect their children in the digital age. The advice includes:
1. **Reviewing Privacy Settings**: Parents are encouraged to utilise privacy controls available on social media platforms to limit who can view their posts or to make their accounts private.
2. **Checking Shared Content**: It’s essential for parents to regularly review the images already shared online, ensuring that any identifiable information, such as a child’s face or school uniform, is not visible.
3. **Revisiting Consent**: Parents should have open discussions with friends, family, and institutions, such as schools or clubs, regarding the images being taken of their children and the importance of consent—this includes reassessing any signed consent forms.
Additionally, involving children in these discussions can empower them to understand their own privacy and feel confident in saying no to certain types of images being shared.
The Rise of ‘Sharenting’ and Associated Risks
This guidance arrives in the wake of growing concerns surrounding “sharenting,” a term coined in 2016 that refers to parents sharing images or videos of their children on social media. Experts have long warned that this practice can expose children to various risks, including identity theft and breaches of privacy as they mature. However, with the emergence of sophisticated AI tools that can manipulate images—such as altering clothing or appearance—the stakes have never been higher.
Kerry Smith, the IWF’s chief, acknowledges the delicate balance parents must strike: “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. These are not hypothetical threats; they are real.”
Increasing Awareness of AI and Its Implications
The rapid integration of AI into everyday life has brought both remarkable benefits and serious risks. While AI can enhance our experiences and streamline processes, its misuse poses significant challenges, particularly when it comes to safeguarding children. As the government takes steps to combat AI-related abuse—like banning “nudification” apps and amending laws to protect minors—public awareness remains crucial.
As parents navigate this complex digital landscape, they must remain vigilant and informed. The NCA and IWF’s guidance serves as a vital resource to help families understand the implications of their online activities.
Why it Matters
The safety and well-being of children in the digital realm have never been more critical. As technology evolves, so too do the dangers associated with it. By adhering to expert guidance and fostering a culture of awareness, parents can play a significant role in protecting their children from the potential threats posed by AI-generated content. The conversation around online sharing is not just about privacy; it’s about ensuring that our children can thrive in a safe and secure environment, free from exploitation and harm.