Criminal Investigation Launched into AI-Generated Porn Scandal at Hong Kong’s Oldest University

HONG KONG — Chinese authorities in Hong Kong have initiated a criminal investigation following allegations from over a dozen female students and teachers at the University of Hong Kong. They accused a male law student of using artificial intelligence to create deepfake pornographic images of them. This inquiry was announced by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data after widespread dissatisfaction from students at the city’s oldest university.

Students expressed their frustration with the institution for not adequately protecting them or taking sufficient action against the accused. A letter posted on Instagram by three unnamed victims detailed the disturbing situation, stating that the perpetrator organized over 700 images into folders named after the victims. These images, including original photographs, were reportedly found on the male student’s laptop, which had been reported to the university back in February.

While the images were not widely distributed, the distress caused was significant. In March, the university interviewed some victims, later informing one that the accused had drafted a brief apology letter. Although NBC News could not authenticate this letter and did not receive a response from the victims’ account, the university acknowledged awareness of the situation and issued a statement indicating that the accused had received a warning letter and was required to formally apologize.

Deepfake pornography, which consists of altered or fabricated images to depict individuals in nonconsensual sexual scenarios, is an emerging challenge in today’s digital landscape. Regulations in Hong Kong regarding this technology are limited, noting only the criminalization of publishing intimate images without consent without explicitly prohibiting their generation. In the wake of the controversy, calls for stronger regulations and institutional action have grown more pronounced among the student body.

Chief Executive John Lee emphasized the necessity of universities to cultivate moral character and address misconduct decisively. The University of Hong Kong stated it is reviewing the case and may take further action to ensure a secure and respectful learning environment.