AI deepfakes and online abuse drive women from public life, UN survey finds
A UN Women survey of 641 female journalists, activists and human rights defenders found that generative AI tools are being used to create nonconsensual deepfake imagery targeting women in public life. The abuse has reportedly driven women to self-censor, withdraw from professional roles, and experience severe psychological harm including PTSD.
What happened
A survey of 641 women in public-facing roles from 119 countries conducted between August and November 2025 found widespread online abuse using AI-generated deepfakes. The study, 'Tipping Point: Online Violence Impacts, Manifestations and Redress in the AI Age,' was published by UN Women in partnership with researchers at City St George's, University of London, and TheNerve.
The survey found that 27% of respondents received unsolicited sexual advances or unwanted intimate images (cyberflashing), 12% had personal images including intimate ones shared without consent, and 6% were subjected to deepfakes or manipulated imagery. Generative AI apps are used to create nonconsensual sexual imagery, including what researchers call AI-assisted 'virtual rape' depicting sexual assault.
Reported impact
More than 40% of women self-censored on social media to avoid abuse, while 19% pulled back from speaking out in professional contexts. The attacks, often deliberate and coordinated, pushed women out of public life and undermined their professional credibility.
One in four women surveyed reported anxiety or depression following online violence, and 13% were diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Index analysis
Deepfake tools using AI have become cheaper and faster, producing nonconsensual images in minutes that can be used for harassment. The abuse targets female journalists, activists, and human rights defenders across 119 countries.
Governance controls
The report highlighted widespread failures in institutional responses to online violence against women.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.