Student charged with AI-generated deepfake pornography of classmates in Córdoba
A student in Córdoba, Argentina was charged with using AI face-swapping to create fake pornographic images of at least 16 underage classmates, posting them on adult websites with details linking to their social media. Prosecutors say the evidence supports conviction; victims reportedly suffered severe psychological harm.
What happened
A student at Instituto Superior de Comercio Manuel Belgrano used AI face-swapping techniques to superimpose the faces of at least 16 classmates, aged 15 to 16, onto pornographic video content.
The manipulated images were published on adult websites accompanied by AI-generated descriptions that objectified the victims and included links to their social media accounts, facilitating contact from strangers. Although some images were deleted, others continue to circulate online associated with the victims' real names.
Reported impact
The victims suffered severe psychological harm including declines in academic and sports performance, changes in their routines, shame, lack of motivation, and fear. The abogado representing three victims stated the damage is permanent and ongoing.
Index analysis
Prosecutor Pablo Cuenca Tagle stated that the evidence is abundant and supports a conviction. The defence faced challenges in prosecution because face swapping is not codified in the Argentine Penal Code, requiring legal circumvention to frame the offense.
Governance controls
The abogado for three victims stated that neither institutions nor Argentine legislation are prepared to address the adverse consequences of artificial intelligence, and that face swapping could be regulated in the Penal Code within a week with minimal legislative effort. A national deputy previously introduced a bill to regulate AI use responsibly in Argentina.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.