AI-generated deepfake pornography distributed depicting German women
Non-consensual AI-generated deepfake pornographic images were created depicting German women including law student Theresia in 2023. A ZDF documentary broadcast in August 2026 documented the psychological harm and sense of abandonment by authorities experienced by the victims.
What happened
Theresia, a 23-year-old law student and activist, discovered in 2023 that artificial intelligence had been used to create non-consensual pornographic images bearing her name, face, and personal images. She received unsolicited messages from men she did not know with sexual undertones, followed by a link to a public profile containing the deepfake content.
A ZDF documentary titled '37°Leben - Leben nach digitaler Gewalt' ('37°Life - Life after digital violence'), broadcast on 9 August 2026, featured Theresia and another woman named Atessa describing their experiences as victims of AI-generated deepfake pornography.
Reported impact
Theresia reported feeling ashamed and disgusted upon discovering the deepfake images. She stated that she felt abandoned by the state in addressing the harm inflicted upon her.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.