# **Thorn Survey Shows Teens Recognize the Dangers of Deepfake Nudes**
## **Introduction**
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in not only breakthroughs but also ethical challenges, especially concerning deepfake technology. One of the most alarming uses of this technology is the generation of deepfake nudes—AI-created images that alter genuine photos to portray individuals in explicit situations without their approval. A recent survey conducted by Thorn, a nonprofit focused on child exploitation, indicates that the majority of youth are aware of the damage inflicted by deepfake nudes, even as this issue becomes increasingly common in educational and online environments.
## **The Escalating Menace of Deepfake Nudes**
Deepfake technology has progressed swiftly, facilitating the creation of realistic yet false images more easily than before. Numerous offenders utilize free or low-cost “nudify” applications to fabricate fake nudes of their peers, which are subsequently disseminated among classmates or within online communities. This unsettling trend has resulted in considerable emotional turmoil for victims, many of whom learn of these images only once they start circulating.
A **New York Times** report from 2024 shed light on the rising “epidemic” of deepfake nudes in middle and high schools, where educational institutions frequently find it difficult to manage the challenge effectively. The absence of adequate policies and support structures leaves victims exposed and enables wrongdoers to go unpunished.
## **Survey Results: Teens Acknowledge the Harm**
Thorn’s survey involving 1,200 young individuals aged 13 to 20 revealed that **84% of participants see deepfake nudes as a form of abuse** that inflicts harm on the individuals depicted. This awareness serves as a hopeful indicator, implying that younger generations are cultivating a moral stance against the exploitation of AI-generated content.
Melissa Stroebel, Thorn’s research director, highlighted that while deepfake pornography has become accepted by some adults, teenagers seem to possess a clearer grasp of the ethical concerns involved. In contrast, a **2023 survey** indicated that **74% of male U.S. users of deepfake porn felt no remorse** about consuming such material, underscoring a generational gap in perceptions of AI-generated explicit content.
## **The Effects on Victims**
The emotional and social repercussions of deepfake nudes can be significant. Victims often endure **shame, anxiety, and damage to their reputation**, with some even experiencing harassment or blackmail. Roberta Duffield, director of intelligence at Blackbird.AI, stressed that deepfake nudes exemplify one of the most harmful aspects of AI, particularly for young individuals still shaping their identities.
The **non-consensual distribution of deepfake nudes intensifies the trauma**, as victims lose authority over their own likeness. Stroebel noted that even if just one person generates a fake nude, its spread can affect an entire community, amplifying the extent of harm.
## **Reasons Teens Produce Deepfake Nudes**
Despite a broad acknowledgment of the harm, a portion of teens continues to create and share deepfake nudes. Thorn’s survey uncovered various motivations, such as:
– **Sexual curiosity and desire for pleasure**
– **Revenge against fellow students**
– **Peer pressure and dares**
For instance, a **14-year-old boy revealed he made deepfake nudes to get back at a bully**, while an **18-year-old male participant admitted he was merely “horny” and “wasn’t thinking clearly.”** These responses indicate that while many teens comprehend the damage, some rationalize their behaviors based on personal wants or social pressures.
## **The Danger of Normalization**
A significant worry is that deepfake nudes may become accepted among teenagers. Thorn’s survey indicated that **10% of respondents personally knew a victim**, pointing to the widespread nature of the issue. If educational institutions do not adopt a firm stance, the lack of clear repercussions could foster further acceptance of this damaging conduct.
Duffield underscored the imperative for **educational campaigns** aimed at helping young people grasp the ethical and legal consequences of deepfake nudes. Schools, guardians, and policymakers must collaborate to avert normalization and ensure that victims receive necessary assistance.
## **How Teens React to Deepfake Nudes**
When faced with deepfake nudes, teens generally seek help more actively compared to other types of online sexual exploitation. Thorn discovered that:
– **76% of teens sought assistance regarding deepfake nudes**
– **57% turned to offline resources, including parents, teachers, or law enforcement**
– **Most utilized online measures like blocking and reporting**
However, Stroebel raised concerns that numerous teens opt to block offenders instead of reporting them, which could permit the abuse to persist without consequences. She advocated for enhanced education about the importance of reporting harmful content to authorities and platforms.
## **The Role of Educational Institutions and Policymakers**
To tackle the surge of deepfake nudes, schools must establish **clear protocols** detailing their response to such incidents. Duff
