The UK government has launched a major offensive against the creation and sharing of abusive AI-generated 'deepfake' content, with new laws set to ban so-called 'nudification' tools. The move forms a central pillar of a renewed national strategy to combat violence against women and girls (VAWG).
New Laws Target Predatory AI Technology
Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips announced the plans on Thursday 18 December 2025, declaring the issue a "national emergency." The forthcoming legislation will explicitly prohibit artificial intelligence applications designed to strip clothes from images of real people, creating fake nude pictures and videos without their knowledge or permission.
"Nudification apps are not used for harmless pranks," Minister Phillips stated emphatically. "They devastate young people’s lives, and we will ensure those who create or supply them face real consequences." The government has vowed to work alongside technology companies to stop online predators and prevent sexual extortion.
A Cross-Government Strategy for a National Emergency
The ban on deepfake abuse technology is part of a wider, cross-departmental VAWG strategy with an ambitious goal: to halve incidents of violence against women and girls within ten years. Minister Phillips promised that "change is coming" as she outlined the comprehensive plan.
The strategy addresses root causes, with a focus on influencing young men. Key measures already announced include:
- Mandatory lessons on healthy relationships for all secondary school children.
- Specialist training for teachers to spot early signs of worrying behaviour in boys and young men.
Enhanced Support for Survivors and Policing
Beyond prevention, the strategy significantly boosts support for victims and improves the justice response. Every police force in England and Wales will see the introduction of specialist rape and sexual offences investigators to handle these complex crimes.
The NHS will provide better, more tailored support for survivors of abuse. Furthermore, a £19 million funding boost will be allocated to local councils specifically to increase the provision of safe housing for those fleeing domestic abuse.
By combining a crackdown on harmful technology with education, early intervention, and stronger survivor support, the government aims to create a lasting shift in tackling what it describes as one of society's most pervasive harms.
