With the increasing prevalence of AI in all facets of life, young students have the opportunity to integrate it as a tool to assist them in education. Parents may be concerned that AI programs will do schoolwork for their children, giving them a subpar grasp of materials. However, the rise of AI is influencing school children in more worrying ways than finishing their work for them. For information on how to manage concerns related to AI programs and the potential for disciplinary action, call the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or find us online.

New Jersey High School Students Using AI to Create Pornography

Westfield High School is undertaking a first-of-its-kind investigation after allegations surfaced from students using AI programs to alter real photos of classmates to create pornographic images. A letter to parents explained that the images, which included fake nudes of underage classmates, were distributed to other students through group text messages. Given the ages of those involved, Westfield High School is keeping all information about the students accused of creating AI-generated pornography confidential, including the potential discipline they face at school or through New Jersey's legal system.

Parents have echoed their worries about the lack of instruction on how AI programs can be used—leading to growing instances of inappropriate use. Even without further innovation, today's AI can make an indistinguishable replica of someone, leaving schools and the public at large without clear guidelines to ensure that these new technologies are used responsibly.

The Risks of AI Programs

Real images manipulated by AI programs, sometimes called “deepfakes,” pose a threat not only because they can falsely represent individuals but also because the justice system has been slow to catch up in addressing them. When it comes to New Jersey's justice system, the legal field dealing with AI-generated content based on real photos is still in its infancy. There are few states with laws on the books, with some that mix in statutes managing the spread of public misinformation along with laws specific to pornographic deepfakes. But New Jersey has yet to become one.

Once those involved with creating the pornographic are identified, they will likely face repercussions at school, however. Yet, individuals don't have to be involved in the creation of pornographic material to get in trouble. Since the photos were distributed via group text messages, individuals may have received the photos even though they may be completely uninvolved in the situation. Despite that, it could land them in big trouble.

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help You With Charges Involving AI Pornography?

Not only can AI-generated pornography lead to significant privacy violations and emotional distress for the targeted individuals, but it can also put recipients in a position that threatens their future unbeknownst to them. Fortunately, parents can acquire professional help when their children are caught up in such a situation.

The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team will place experienced attorneys by your child's side to ensure their rights are protected and they receive the best possible defense. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the distribution of AI-generated pornography, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses or others involved, and protecting their rights throughout the process. To discuss a defense strategy, call 888-535-3686 or use the online service to schedule a consultation now.