Challenges in the World of AI and Deepfakes: A Guide for Parents

First published February 2025
Updated July 2026

The digital world is evolving at an astonishing rate, bringing new challenges for parents and their children. One of the most complicated developments is the rise of AI-generated content and deepfakes—sophisticated technologies that can manipulate reality in ways we could never have imagined just a few years ago.

While these technologies have positive applications, they also pose significant risks, especially when it comes to the safety and well-being of teens. As these tools become more accessible, schools around the world are seeing an increase in incidents involving AI-generated deepfakes targeting students. It’s crucial for parents to understand how these technologies work, the dangers they present, and how to help protect their children from harm.

What Are AI and Deepfakes?

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to machines or software designed to mimic human intelligence, like recognizing speech, interpreting images, or generating written text. One of the most alarming uses of AI is in the creation of deepfakes, which are manipulated videos or images that make someone appear to say or do things they never did. Deepfakes are created by training AI algorithms on a person’s likeness—whether it’s their face, voice, or mannerisms—and applying those features onto another video or image.

Even public figures—including celebrities and politicians—have experienced negative outcomes from deepfake technology. Their faces and voices have been manipulated in ways intended to deceive the public or harm their reputations. Unfortunately, teens are equally vulnerable to exploitation through deepfakes, which can be used for cyberbullying, blackmail, or harassment.

A Form of Digital Abuse

AI and deepfakes have quickly found a dark side, especially in the form of digital abuse against teens. One of the most harmful uses is the creation and distribution of non-consensual deepfake pornography where an ordinary photo, which is often downloaded from social media, is manipulated using AI to create fake explicit images or videos without the teen's consent. These images can spread quickly through text messages, group chats, or social media, leaving victims feeling humiliated, violated, and fearful that the content will continue to circulate.

In some cases, perpetrators use these images to blackmail or threaten victims. As this form of abuse continues to grow, new legal protections have been put in place. The TAKE IT DOWN Act (Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks) took effect in May 2026 and requires many social media, messaging, gaming, and image-sharing platforms to provide a clear process for victims to report non-consensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes. Once a valid request is received, covered platforms must remove the reported content and known identical copies within 48 hours, helping limit the spread of harmful images.

In addition to explicit content, deepfakes can also be used for cyberbullying. Someone could create a fake video or audio clip showing a teen saying or doing something they never actually did, damaging friendships, reputations, and mental health. Since 2023, schools around the world have reported a growing number of cases involving students using AI to create sexualized deepfake images of classmates, and experts believe many more incidents go unreported. Because AI-generated content can appear incredibly realistic, these forms of digital abuse are often difficult to detect, leaving victims feeling helpless and unsure of how to defend themselves.

How to Talk to Your Child About AI and Deepfakes

While these challenges can feel overwhelming, parents play an important role in helping teens safely navigate today's digital world. By having open conversations, teaching healthy online habits, and creating a safe space for children to ask for help, families can reduce the risks of AI-enabled abuse and respond confidently if it happens. Here are some tips for guiding the discussion:

1. Educate Your Teen: Explain what deepfakes are and how they can be used harmfully. Make sure your teen understands that not everything online is real.
2. Encourage Digital Literacy: Help your teen develop the ability to recognize fake content. Encourage them to question the source of media before believing it.
3. Discuss Consent and Boundaries: Talk about the importance of consent when sharing images or videos. Remind them that once something is shared, it may be out of their control.
4. Offer Support: Let your child know that if they ever feel uncomfortable or experience online harassment, they can come to you for help without fear of judgment.

How to Get Help

If your teen is ever targeted by deepfakes or digital abuse, there are resources available. The Center for Family Safety and Healing is an excellent place to start, offering guidance on how to navigate abuse and providing support services, including legal assistance and safety planning.

Additionally, the Green Flags Campaign by The Center for Family Safety and Healing offers a confidential call, text, and chat service for teens and parents seeking help or supportive services. These services ensure that no one has to face these challenges alone.