Millions created deepfake nudes on Telegram as AI tools drive global wave of digital abuse

Analysis finds at least 150 channels on messaging app that have distributed AI-generated images and video

Millions of people around the world have created and shared deepfake nudes on the secure messaging app Telegram, a Guardian analysis has shown, as the spread of advanced AI tools industrialises the online abuse of women.

The Guardian identified at least 150 Telegram channels - large encrypted group chats popular for their secure communication - that appeared to have users in many countries, from the UK to Brazil, China to Nigeria, Russia to India. Some of them offer nudified" photos or videos for a fee: users can upload a photo of any woman, and AI will produce a video of that woman performing sexual acts. Many more offer a feed of images - of celebrities, social media influencers and ordinary women - made nude or made to perform sexual acts by AI. Followers are also using the channels to share tips on available deepfake tools.