Cybertip.ca

Canada’s national tipline for reporting the online sexual exploitation of children

Cybertip.ca Alert: AI deepfakes increasingly used in sextortion tactics, Cybertip.ca warns


Cybertip.ca, Canada’s tipline for reporting the online sexual exploitation of children, is warning parents and caregivers about a concerning trend in how teens are being targeted online. Reports from Canadian victims reveal offenders are using artificial intelligence (AI) to create deepfakes of youth — often using nothing more than a profile picture.

While in a state of distress and panic, many youth victims reported giving in to demands and sending money to the offender in the hopes of preventing the spread of these fake images, and having their private information leaked online.

What are deepfakes?

Sexualized deepfakes are images, videos, or audio recordings that look or sound completely realistic but have been altered using technology in ways that present the victim in a sexualized or abusive context.

Previously, Cybertip.ca has seen offenders attempting to coerce or trick youth into sharing explicit images; however, they’re increasingly bypassing this step in favour of creating fake content with AI tools in the likeness of their victim.

Where is this happening?

Teens are reporting that sometimes offenders find their photos using popular social media platforms and messaging apps — including Instagram®, Telegram®, X™, and Discord®.

Offenders seem to be taking advantage of spaces where youth can connect and communicate privately — environments that can be difficult for safe adults to monitor.

What can parents and caregivers do?

  • Have open conversations: Talk with your child about deepfakes and the risks associated with some AI tools. Ask what they know about deepfakes and the harms that can be caused;
  • Never give in to demands: It might feel like sending money or providing nude images will make the offender stop, but youth should not give in to demands. Encourage them to seek help and reassure them this is not their fault;
  • Consider making accounts private: When using social media, youth should consider only sharing photos with friends and people they know in real life. Go through privacy settings together to familiarize yourself with the platform;
  • Reflect before posting: Consider when it would be appropriate to share photos of your children, and on which social media platforms. Consider the audience who will be viewing these photos and the context in which these photos were taken;
  • Share resources: Let youth know help is available if they, or someone they know, gets targeted. They can always reach out to: