A 52-year-old man has been arrested and charged over the alleged creation and distribution of AI-generated posters that targeted multiple women in Queensland.
Queensland Police confirmed they launched an investigation after they became aware of a number of sexualised, deepfake posters that had been displayed in various locations, including in a public venue in Gatton in May.
The AI-generated posters allegedly featured victims’ faces superimposed onto the bodies of women depicted performing explicit sexual acts.
The victims’ names, social media usernames and employment details were also allegedly included on the posters, alongside false claims that identified them as sex workers.
Detectives have so far identified eight alleged victims, noting the posters have targeted women across south-east Queensland since February 2021.
“The victims in this matter were subjected to deeply distressing and highly personal attacks through the creation and public display of AI-generated intimate images. No one should have to experience this type of offending,” Ipswich Detective Acting Inspector Tim Martin said.
“Artificial intelligence is an emerging technology but using it to create and distribute abusive or degrading material is not beyond the reach of police. We will investigate these matters thoroughly and hold offenders to account.
“If you become aware of this type of material, we encourage you not to share it. Instead report it to police so we can investigate and prevent further harm to the community.”
The 52-year-old man has been charged with a total of 43 offences, police said. This includes 27 counts of distributing intimate images, six counts of unlawful stalking and four counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, plus other charges.
Police executed a search warrant at the man’s Cleveland address on Wednesday, seizing electronic devices, printers and a number of AI-generated posters. They also found an electronic control weapon, three long firearms and 25 rounds of ammunition.
The man has been remanded in custody and will appear at Brisbane Magistrates Court on 19 August.
In a statement, Queensland Police urged anyone who has information in relation to the investigation to come forward directly to police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.