Japan sees surge in AI‑generated sexual deepfakes of minors

Japan’s National Police Agency reported that 123 cases of AI‑generated sexual deepfakes involving children were handled in the first half of 2026, more than double the 60 cases recorded in the same period a year earlier and exceeding the total of 114 cases for all of 2025. Junior‑high school students were the most affected group with 79 victims, followed by 38 high‑school students, three elementary‑school pupils and three victims of unknown age.

In 83 of the incidents the suspected perpetrators were classmates or other students from the same school, while seven cases involved individuals met through social‑media platforms. Four cases involved children photographed without their knowledge in public places before their images were altered. By the end of June two suspects had been referred to prosecutors, and investigations into the remaining cases continue. Police officials said they will increase public‑awareness campaigns about the illegal use of AI and pursue strict enforcement of the law.