Netherlands to prosecute man for creating deepfake pornography of celebrities

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service (OM) is prosecuting a 74-year-old man from North Holland for the creation and distribution of deepfake pornography featuring dozens of prominent Dutch women. The suspect is alleged to have been a central figure in the Dutch operations of the platform MrDeepFakes.

Following a year-long investigation triggered by media reports and over twenty formal complaints, authorities seized computers and data storage devices containing fabricated imagery of approximately sixty individuals. Targets included politicians, Olympic athletes, presenters, and members of the Royal House, such as Princess Amalia.

Victims, including presenter Sylvana IJsselmuiden and BBB leader Caroline van der Plas, have spoken out about the impact of the videos, with some describing the experience as ‘digital rape’. While the Dutch-based suspect faces a potential prison sentence of up to two years, the Canadian founder of the website will not be prosecuted, as the activity was not illegal in Canada and extradition was deemed a disproportionate use of police resources.