By Dan Milmo
Publication Date: 2026-03-24 06:00:00
The amount of AI-generated child sexual abuse material found online has increased by 14% over the past year, with most videos showing the most extreme content, according to a security watchdog.
The Internet Watch Foundation said it identified 8,029 AI-generated images and videos containing realistic child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in 2025. It added that there has been a more than 260-fold increase in videos.
According to the IWF, 65% of the 3,443 videos were classified as Category A, the designation for the most serious material under British law. The corresponding figure for non-AI videos was 43%, the regulator said, showing that the technology is being used to create more violent content.
Kerry Smith, the IMF’s chief executive, said: “Technological advances should never come at the expense of a child’s safety and well-being. While AI can offer much in a positive sense, it is frightening to consider that its power can be used to destroy a child’s life. This material is dangerous.”
An IMF analyst said…