AI-Generated Obscene Images Lead to First Arrests in Japan

Tokyo police have arrested four men aged between their 20s and 50s for allegedly creating and selling obscene images generated using artificial intelligence. This is reportedly the first case of its kind in Japan.

AI-Generated Obscene Images Lead to First Arrests in Japan

Authorities say the men used free AI image generation software trained with publicly available photos to create lifelike nude images of fictitious adult women posed in sexually explicit ways. The images were printed as posters and sold online, often advertised as “AI Beauties,” fetching several thousand yen each.

Tomohiro Mizutani, a 44-year-old retailer from Aichi Prefecture, allegedly earned over 10 million yen (around $66,000) from selling these posters over a year. All suspects have confessed to the charges, with Mizutani stating that he pursued the venture for its high profitability. Another suspect, Takashi Suganuma, 53, said he taught himself how to generate the images and intended to build a business around it.

This incident has brought renewed attention to the spread of deepfakes and AI-generated sexual content. Tokyo police classified the AI-created images as obscene material despite the absence of real models.

The incident also adds fuel to the ongoing debate regarding AI-generated child imagery. While Japan bans any sexual content involving minors, legal gaps remain concerning synthetic images. Some local governments, like Tottori Prefecture, have begun revising their laws to address the issue.

Legal experts argue that regulation must evolve with technology. Professor Takashi Nagase of Kanazawa University stressed the importance of adapting laws to protect society while respecting freedom of expression.

Globally, law enforcement is stepping up. Europol recently announced the arrest of 25 individuals across 19 countries for allegedly operating a website distributing AI-generated child abuse images.

via Você Sabia Anime