Deepfake nude images of Maltese schoolchildren created and shared
Children aged 12 to 20 in Malta had deepfake nude images created and shared without consent using AI-powered apps that generate synthetic naked images. The images were used to humiliate or blackmail victims, with parents reluctant to report due to justice system delays and concerns about re-traumatizing their children.
What happened
Children as young as 12 in Malta had their faces superimposed onto naked bodies or were 'undressed' using AI-powered deepfake-generating apps. The Foundation for Social Welfare Services' Be Smart Online project received the first report of such deepfake images six months prior to October 2024, with three other cases reported since.
In one documented case, a photo of a girl addressing her schoolmates at an assembly was used to create a naked image of her. The victims, aged 12 to 20, attended different State and Church schools. The images were shared on messaging apps like WhatsApp to humiliate victims or sent by fake profiles in blackmail attempts.
Reported impact
Victims experienced humiliation and blackmail through the circulation of synthetic nude images. Parents faced a dilemma about reporting to authorities, often reluctant due to systemic delays in the justice system and concern about subjecting children to traumatic police questioning.
A coordinator from the Foundation for Social Welfare Services noted that children were 'victims twice over -- victims of the crime and victims of the system.' There was also concern that the images could reach internet forums frequented by paedophiles.
Index analysis
The motives behind creation and sharing of the deepfake images often involved revenge following the end of a relationship or rejection. All school-age victims attended different schools and came from various localities across Malta.
Governance controls
Be Smart Online advocates awareness and education rather than restricting technology access, teaching children concepts like consent and respect. The organization advised parents with evidence to report to police, though uptake remained low due to systemic barriers.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.