New study shows 1 in 7 people have been victims of sextortion – and AI is making it worse
Summary
A recent study involving over 16,000 respondents across ten countries reveals that 14.5% of adults have experienced sextortion, with 4.8% admitting to being perpetrators. The Australian eSafety Commissioner launched a campaign featuring AI-generated videos to raise awareness about this growing issue, which saw over 3,300 reports in 2025, with 86% from males and 42% from young men aged 18-24. Sextortion, a form of image-based abuse, involves threats to share intimate images for financial or behavioral compliance. Artificial intelligence tools, including nudify apps, deepfake generators, and generative AI, are intensifying the problem by facilitating the creation of synthetic media and enabling scammers to craft convincing messages and manage numerous victims simultaneously. Initial contact often occurs on platforms like Tinder and Instagram, with threats escalating on WhatsApp and Telegram. The research also indicates that LGBTQIA+ individuals, men, and younger people are disproportionately affected, and sextortion extends beyond cybercriminals to abusive relationships.
Key takeaway
For policy makers and platform developers addressing online safety, this data underscores the urgent need for proactive measures against AI-enhanced sextortion. You should prioritize implementing "safety-by-design" protocols, including automated detection of suspicious behavior and robust reporting mechanisms. Additionally, invest in educational campaigns that equip young people with critical reasoning skills to identify and resist sophisticated AI-driven scams, ensuring comprehensive support for victims.
Key insights
AI tools are intensifying the global sextortion crisis, which impacts 14.5% of adults, by enabling easier creation and wider targeting.
Principles
- Sextortion is a global, low-cost, high-reward crime.
- Criminals are early adopters of advanced AI technologies.
- Digital platforms bear a "digital duty of care".
Method
The eSafety Commissioner's campaign uses AI-generated videos to realistically portray sextortionists' tactics, aiming to educate young people on critical reasoning and warning signs.
In practice
- Report, block, and seek support immediately.
- Collect evidence like screenshots and payment details.
- Platforms must integrate "safety-by-design" protections.
Topics
- Sextortion
- AI-Generated Content
- Online Safety
- Digital Platforms
- Cybercrime
- Image-Based Abuse
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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Artificial intelligence (AI) – The Conversation.