AI imagery getting more ‘extreme’ as IWF welcomes new rules allowing thorough testing of AI tools
Record levels of dangerous AI‑generated child sexual abuse imagery were found by the IWF in 2025, with a dramatic rise in severe content. New polling shows 82% of UK adults want government action to ensure AI systems are safe by design.
A new IWF report reveals record levels of AI‑generated child sexual abuse imagery and alarming insight into how offenders are exploiting emerging technologies. The charity is urging EU lawmakers to introduce a zero‑tolerance ban on AI‑generated abuse and the tools used to create it.
AI is becoming more powerful by the day, and the challenge of keeping children safe is growing with it.
IWF CEO Kerry Smith calls for complete EU ban of AI abuse content at high-level meeting of global experts in Rome
Europe remains the world’s largest hoster of child sexual abuse imagery with 62% of known images and videos being traced to a European Union country* in 2021.
We have a powerful sense of mission, with clarity, focus and purpose to our work. Our one single task – beyond all else – is the elimination of child sexual abuse material online.