California has significantly increased penalties for using artificial intelligence to create fake nude images of minors, raising the maximum fine to $250,000 per offense. The new law, part of broader efforts to protect children in the digital age, reflects growing concerns over the misuse of AI to generate non-consensual explicit content. The updated legislation strengthens existing laws that prohibit the creation and distribution of sexually explicit images of minors without consent. Under the new rules, individuals found guilty of using AI to generate or share fake nude images of children face fines of up to $250,000 and potential jail time, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense. Lawmakers say the surge in AI-powered deepfake technology has made it easier than ever to produce convincing fake images, often targeting minors. These synthetic images can cause lasting emotional harm, damage reputations, and lead to serious psychological distress—especially when shared online without consent. The law also expands enforcement authority, allowing state agencies and law enforcement to pursue cases more aggressively. It applies to anyone who creates, shares, or distributes AI-generated nude images of individuals under 18, regardless of whether the person is a minor themselves. Advocates for child safety and digital rights have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary step in holding tech abusers accountable. “This is about protecting kids from a new kind of digital harm that didn’t exist a few years ago,” said a spokesperson for a California-based youth advocacy group. “The law sends a clear message: exploiting children with AI will not be tolerated.” The state’s action follows similar efforts in other U.S. jurisdictions, but California’s penalties are among the strictest in the nation. Lawmakers argue that strong deterrents are essential as AI tools become more accessible and sophisticated. In addition to criminal penalties, the law includes provisions for victims to seek civil remedies, including compensation for emotional distress and legal fees. It also mandates that tech platforms take steps to detect and remove AI-generated child sexual abuse material, reinforcing accountability across the digital ecosystem. As AI continues to evolve, California’s updated regulations aim to stay ahead of emerging threats—ensuring that technological progress does not come at the expense of children’s safety and privacy.