⚙️ AI Hardware

AI's Dark Underbelly: CSAM Videos Spike 260-Fold in 2025

We thought AI was about cute cat videos and productivity hacks. Turns out, it's supercharging the internet's vilest corners, with CSAM videos up over 260 times in 2025.

Chart of surging AI-generated CSAM detections in 2025 from IWF data

⚡ Key Takeaways

  • AI-generated CSAM up 14% in 2025, videos skyrocketed 260-fold with 65% extreme content.
  • Dark web predators thrilled by realistic AI outputs, including audio and real-child manipulations.
  • UK pushes AI testing and bans, but enforcement gaps loom large amid rising detections.

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James Kowalski
Written by

James Kowalski

Investigative tech reporter focused on AI ethics, regulation, and societal impact.

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Originally reported by The Guardian - AI

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