AP report: Rise of deepfake cyberbullying poses a growing problem for schools
AP report: Rise of deepfake cyberbullying poses a growing problem for schools
Publish Date: 2026-01-02 17:27:00
Source Domain: www.pbs.org
- Schools are grappling with the rising issue of students using AI to create sexually explicit deepfakes of classmates.
- The problem gained significant attention in a Louisiana middle school where two boys were charged, yet a victim was expelled, highlighting the complexities of the issue.
- At least half of the states have enacted legislation targeting AI-generated deepfakes, demonstrating an escalating response from governmental bodies.
- Technology advancements have made deepfake creation more accessible, often without the need for technical expertise.
- Experts emphasize that schools need to update their policies on deepfakes and better educate students to prevent them from feeling impunity.
- The trauma from deepfakes can be devastating, as they often go viral and continuously resurface, causing long-term psychological damage.
- Parents are encouraged to engage their children in conversations about deepfakes and to offer a safe space for reporting such instances, with guidance such as the SHIELD acronym for appropriate responses.
