Alders Unit highlights harm of AI “nudification” and calls for ban on artificial intelligence (AI)-based technology that can produce deepfake sexual images of children and adults
The Alders Unit at Children’s Health Ireland has expressed serious concern about the growing use of AI tools that generate sexualised images without consent, often referred to as “AI nudification”.
Jan. 15, 2026
CHI at Tallaght, CHI at Connolly (by appointment)
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These tools pose significant risks to children and young people, including psychological distress, loss of dignity, coercion and long-term trauma.
In line with recent government discussions on online safety, the Alders Unit is calling for urgent regulatory action, stronger accountability for technology platforms, and a coordinated societal response involving health, education, child protection and digital safety sectors. Keith O'Reilly, Director at The Alders Unit CHI at Connolly in Blanchardstown said:
“Any child, young person or adult could be impacted by this misuse of technology. Children deserve online environments that are safe by design and that protect their wellbeing, rights and dignity.”
Brigid Maxell, Interim Director at The Alders Unit CHI at Tallaght added:
“The creation of AI functions that enable the nudification or production of sexual images of children and adults further erodes societal norms regarding child sexual abuse and sexual violence. The online availability of such tools, often without safeguards and in contexts where accountability appears limited, is a matter of serious concern.”
The Alders Unit, as a specialist service in child sexual abuse, supports efforts to uphold children’s rights and calls for a total ban on AI-based functions capable of producing deepfake sexual images of children and adults.
The harms of online sexual violence are equivalent to that which is perpetrated face-to-face. Such harms can result in long-term revictimisation, as images remain accessible to potential offenders over time.
“I don’t think you should be able to do it, I think it should be illegal, its bad, it’s weird and some weird guys would want to use that, and they might use it on girls who don’t want to be used in that way.”
Parents and guardians play a crucial role in helping to keep their children safe online. Talk openly with your child about the risks of sharing images and encourage them to come to you if they see or experience something worrying. If you become aware that your child's images have been 'nudified,' this should be reported to An Garda Siochana or Tusla.
Additional Information
The Alders Unit
The Alders Unit at Children’s Health Ireland provides specialist support for children, young people, and families where there are concerns about sexual abuse. Our mission is to help children and families heal, feel safe, and find a way forward together.
We work with children and young people aged 3 to 18 years living in Dublin, Kildare, Cavan, Monaghan, Louth, Meath and Wicklow, as well as their parents or carers. Our multidisciplinary team includes social workers, psychotherapists, psychologists, and administrators.