Executive summary: There has been a notable increase in victims of AI-generated deepfake imagery seeking support in Guernsey, prompting concerns from local authorities and calls for legal reforms. The Victim Support and Witness Service reports a rise in cases, highlighting the urgent need for better protection and awareness.
In recent hours, Guernsey’s Victim Support and Witness Service has seen more individuals coming forward after becoming victims of intimate deepfake content created using artificial intelligence. Jenny Murphy, who manages the service, expressed concern over the growing number of reports, emphasizing the profound impact on those affected. She described scenarios where victims learn about the images through police or acquaintances, leading to significant emotional distress.
Currently, in Guernsey, sharing intimate images without consent is an offence under existing laws, but the act of using AI tools to create such imagery is not explicitly prohibited. This legal gap has become apparent as technology advances, and the Home Affairs Committee is now reviewing the Sexual Offences Law 2020 to address this issue. The proposed changes aim to criminalize the creation of deepfake porn, aligning with efforts to stay ahead of technological developments rather than reacting after the fact.
Detective Inspector Thomas Lowe of Guernsey Police confirmed that the force has handled several cases in the past year, which has spurred the push for legislative reform. He stated that the police are actively examining how new laws could enhance enforcement and victim safeguarding. Lowe emphasized the importance of proactive measures, noting that the issue is a high priority and that they are exploring all available avenues to support victims effectively.
The challenge extends beyond Guernsey, as highlighted by Sophie Mortimer, manager of the Revenge Porn Helpline in the UK. She reported a steady increase in synthetic sexual imagery cases through 2024 and into 2025, with perpetrators often operating across international borders. This complexity makes it difficult to track and prosecute offenders, as jurisdictions and regulations vary widely, leaving victims with limited recourse.
Murphy urged victims to seek help, assuring them that support services are available to provide both emotional and practical assistance. She stressed the importance of coming forward, as early intervention can mitigate the long-term effects of such violations. The charity offers counseling and guidance to help individuals navigate the aftermath, including dealing with legal and personal repercussions.
The rise in deepfake incidents underscores broader global trends in AI misuse, with similar reports emerging in other regions. In Guernsey, the ongoing legal review represents a critical step towards modernizing protections, but experts warn that continuous adaptation is necessary as AI technology evolves. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are also being considered to prevent future cases.
Looking ahead, the outcome of the proposed law changes could set a precedent for other jurisdictions grappling with similar issues. As victims continue to seek support, the collective response from authorities, charities, and the community will be essential in combating the harms of AI deepfakes and ensuring justice for those affected.
