In an alarming wake-up call, the National Crime Agency (NCA) has issued a stern warning to parents about the risks associated with sharing images of their children online. As the prevalence of AI-generated abuse imagery escalates, the NCA, in conjunction with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), is urging families to reconsider their online sharing habits. With a staggering increase in the creation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) using AI, it’s crucial for parents to be proactive in safeguarding their children’s digital footprints.
The Rising Threat of AI in Child Safety
The dark realm of AI misuse is growing at a concerning rate. In 2025 alone, the IWF identified over 8,000 AI-generated images and videos depicting realistic child sexual abuse—a 14% surge from the previous year. “While we and policing colleagues tackle offenders, prevention remains vital,” emphasised Tim Wright, a senior manager at the NCA. This new reality highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and protective measures among parents.
The IWF’s figures are startling. In 2024, analysts recorded just 13 AI-generated videos of child sexual abuse, but this number skyrocketed to an alarming 3,440 in 2025. Such imagery is classified as CSAM in the UK, prompting the government to take action by banning “nudification” apps and refining legislation to prevent AI systems from being exploited for these nefarious purposes.
Essential Steps for Parents
Recognising the gravity of the situation, the NCA and IWF have released comprehensive guidance designed to empower parents and guardians. Their recommendations aim to demystify the threats posed by CSAM and the role AI plays in its proliferation. “Hearing about this as a parent or carer can feel alarming, but you are not alone,” the guidance reassures. “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.”
Here are three critical actions parents should consider:
1. **Review Privacy Settings:** Take advantage of the privacy controls available in most social apps. Limiting the visibility of posts or setting accounts to private can make a significant difference in protecting children’s images.
2. **Check Social Media Accounts:** Regularly audit content shared by family and friends to ensure that no identifying details, such as a child’s face or school uniform, could expose them to risks. If necessary, don’t hesitate to request the removal of such images.
3. **Revisit Image Consent:** Engage in conversations with friends, family, and institutions like schools about the images being captured and shared. Reviewing signed consent forms can also be beneficial. Furthermore, involving children in discussions about how and where their images are shared can empower them to express their comfort levels.
The Risks of “Sharenting”
This advisory comes on the heels of ongoing concerns regarding “sharenting”—the practice of parents publicly sharing their children’s photos on social media. Since its inclusion in the Collins English Dictionary in 2016, experts have cautioned that this practice can expose children to unforeseen dangers, including identity theft and privacy breaches.
The rapid advancement and accessibility of AI tools that can manipulate images have only added to these worries. “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,” stated IWF chief Kerry Smith. “These are not hypothetical threats; they are real.”
Why it Matters
As technology continues to evolve, so too do the threats facing our children. The rise of AI-generated abuse imagery necessitates a re-evaluation of how parents share their children’s images online. By adopting proactive measures and fostering open dialogue about online safety, families can create a safer digital environment. Awareness is the first step towards prevention, and understanding these risks is crucial for the well-being of our next generation. As parents navigate the complexities of the digital age, it’s imperative to ensure that their children’s safety remains paramount.
