By Micah Jonah, February 21, 2026
Spanish authorities have launched investigations into X, Meta, and TikTok over concerns that their platforms may be amplifying AI-generated child sexual abuse imagery. This follows a technical report suggesting that algorithms could be unintentionally spreading illegal content.
The move comes as Ireland’s Data Protection Commission also investigates X’s AI chatbot, Grok, for producing sexualised images, including of minors.
New data from the Internet Watch Foundation shows a dramatic rise in confirmed AI-generated child sexual abuse content. In 2025, 3,440 such cases were reported globally, compared to just 13 in 2024. Overall confirmed reports of abuse content reached 312,030 in 2024. UNICEF added that over the past year, at least 1.2 million children across 11 countries had their images manipulated into explicit deepfakes.
Regulators are responding quickly. The UK plans to ban AI tools used to generate such imagery, while international agencies are calling for stronger detection systems, stricter laws, and safety-by-design measures to curb this growing threat.
The rise in AI-enabled abuse highlights an urgent need for both technology companies and governments to strengthen safeguards to protect children worldwide.
