A campaign in the UK led to the rapid passage of the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, which criminalized the creation of non-consensual deepfake intimate images. This legislative victory addresses a significant gap in protection, as previous laws required proving intent to cause distress, which was often impossible. The new consent-based law, which includes provisions for forced deletion of the material, marks a major step in regulating the uncontrolled spread of digital harms. It demonstrates how legislative action can quickly respond to emerging digital threats.
December 4, 2025. theguardian.com