In a critical advisory, the National Crime Agency (NCA) and the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) are urging parents to exercise extreme caution when sharing images of their children online. The warning comes as the risk of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated abuse imagery continues to escalate alarmingly. With over 8,000 AI-created images and videos depicting realistic child sexual abuse identified in 2025, the need for heightened vigilance has never been more pressing.
The Growing Threat of AI in Child Safety
The NCA’s stark warning highlights a troubling trend: a staggering 14% increase in AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) compared to the previous year. Tim Wright, a senior manager at the NCA, emphasised the dual approach required to combat this issue: while law enforcement works to identify and apprehend offenders, preventative measures are equally essential.
In collaboration with the IWF, the NCA has released new guidelines aimed at empowering parents to safeguard their children in the digital age. The guidance encourages families to reassess their online sharing habits, focusing on privacy settings and the types of images they post.
Essential Steps for Parents
To help combat the risks posed by AI-generated imagery, the NCA and IWF recommend several proactive steps for parents:
1. **Review Privacy Settings**: Utilise the privacy controls available in most social media applications to restrict the visibility of shared posts. Consider creating a closed group for trusted friends and family, allowing for safer sharing practices.
2. **Audit Social Media Accounts**: Regularly examine previously shared content to ensure that identifying details—such as faces or school uniforms—are not visible. If necessary, remove images that could compromise a child’s safety.
3. **Reassess Image Consent**: Engage with schools, clubs, and other organisations about the images taken of your child. Ensure you are aware of consent forms and discuss with your children the importance of being mindful about where and how their images are shared.
The guidance also stresses the importance of involving children in these discussions. Empowering them to voice their concerns can significantly bolster their confidence in managing their online presence.
Sharenting Under Scrutiny
This advisory comes in the wake of ongoing concerns around “sharenting,” a term coined to describe the trend of parents sharing photos and videos of their children on social media. While sharing moments with loved ones is natural, experts warn that it can expose children to risks such as identity theft, privacy violations, and potential exploitation.
Kerry Smith, the IWF’s chief, acknowledges the dilemma faced by parents: “We don’t want to discourage sharing images with trusted friends and family, but it is crucial for everyone to understand the very real risks involved.” The rise of sophisticated AI tools that can manipulate images adds an unsettling layer to these concerns.
The Role of Technology
As AI tools become increasingly integrated into our lives, the potential for misuse grows. The IWF reported an alarming leap from 13 AI-generated videos of child sexual abuse in 2024 to a staggering 3,440 in 2025. This escalation underscores the urgent need for robust countermeasures and awareness.
The UK government has responded to these threats by implementing stricter regulations on “nudification” apps and reforming laws to hold AI firms accountable. These initiatives aim to ensure that technology cannot be leveraged to create or disseminate CSAM.
Why it Matters
The rising tide of AI-generated abuse imagery poses a grave threat to child safety and privacy. As parents navigate the delicate balance between sharing cherished moments and protecting their children from potential harm, awareness and proactive measures are crucial. By understanding the risks and adopting practical strategies, families can significantly reduce the chances of their children becoming victims of online exploitation. The future of child safety in the digital realm hinges on informed choices and collective vigilance.