Nudification platforms, sometimes called deepnude tools, are websites or apps that use artificial intelligence to digitally remove clothing from photographs of real people, creating fake nude, semi-nude or sexualised images without their knowledge or consent. They require very little technical skill or editing expertise as a user simply uploads a photo or video, and the AI generates a false but convincing image at the click of a button. Alternatively, to distance themselves from accountability or to circumvent a platform’s rules, some people send nudification requests into group chats or forums for others to generate the desired image.

Crucially, these tools cannot see through clothes or remove actual clothing. Instead, they generate an entirely artificial body. Despite this, the results can appear highly realistic and believable. Innocent, everyday photos from private messages or social media have been manipulated in this way.

Anyone can be affected, but the evidence shows a clear pattern: girls and young women are disproportionately targeted. Research from Internet Matters indicates that the overwhelming majority of nude deepfakes online feature women or girls, and nearly all are non-consensual.

In school communities, nudification has been linked to bullying, harassment and child-on-child abuse. Staff are also at risk; incidents have caused anxiety, reputational harm and some teachers have left their jobs after such images have circulated. Schools have reported cases where photos taken from school websites, social media or staff directories have been used to target both pupils and staff.

Beyond the classroom, fabricated images can be used to coerce, pressure or extort young people. Because they appear real, they can silence or manipulate victims, causing fear, shame and lasting emotional distress even when the content is entirely artificial.

The impact on victims can be severe and long-lasting. Being the subject of a fake explicit image, even one that is known to be fabricated, causes significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and in some cases self-harm. Victims often describe feelings of humiliation, powerlessness and profound violation.

“Nudification harms victims, their families and also the young people who create and share these images. Prevention, early intervention and clear guidance are crucial.”

Jim Gamble, CEO, INEQE Safeguarding Group

You do not need to be a tech expert. Calm, open conversations make the most difference and they signal to young people that they can come to you without fear of judgement.