Minnesota proposes ban on AI 'nudify' apps for non-consensual explicit images
Minnesota is considering legislation to ban AI "nudify" applications that create non-consensual sexually explicit images. The bill, sponsored by Senator Erin Maye Quade, was prompted by the case of Molly Kelly and approximately 80 other women who were targeted by someone using the technology, and would impose civil penalties up to $500,000 on operators who allow Minnesota users access to such services.
What happened
Molly Kelly discovered in June that someone she knew had used 'nudification' technology to create sexually explicit videos and images of her using family photos from social media. The same person targeted approximately 80 to 85 other women, most living in Minnesota with connections to the offender.
Reported impact
Kelly reported that the images exist at all is harmful to victims, not just their dissemination. Anyone can quickly create 'hyper-realistic nude images or pornographic video' in minutes using these apps.
Index analysis
Democratic Sen. Erin Maye Quade introduced bipartisan legislation to require operators of 'nudification' sites and apps to block access to Minnesota users or face civil penalties up to $500,000 for each unlawful access, download, or use. The bill aims to prevent creation of such material before it spreads online.
Governance controls
Experts on AI law caution the Minnesota proposal might be unconstitutional on free speech grounds. San Francisco filed a lawsuit in August against several 'nudification' websites alleging violations of state laws against fraudulent business practices, nonconsensual pornography and sexual abuse of children.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.