Updated
Updated · FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul · Jul 27
Minnesota Bans AI Nudification Apps From Aug. 1, Allowing $500,000 Lawsuits
Updated
Updated · FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul · Jul 27

Minnesota Bans AI Nudification Apps From Aug. 1, Allowing $500,000 Lawsuits

3 articles · Updated · FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul · Jul 27

Summary

  • Aug. 1 marks the start of a Minnesota ban on using, accessing or downloading AI tools that turn a person’s photo or video into a nude image without consent.
  • The law also bars people from using nudification apps or websites on someone else’s behalf and prohibits advertising or promoting products designed to nudify images or videos.
  • At least $500,000 in damages can be sought for each unlawful access, giving victims a powerful civil remedy as lawmakers try to curb the spread of fake pornography.
  • Victim testimony during committee hearings described serious personal harm, and supporters said the measure targets tools that let predators victimize adults and children with a click.
  • Gov. Tim Walz signed the law on May 7 after it passed the legislature, with backers calling Minnesota a national leader in restricting AI nudification technology.

Insights

With Minnesota's $500,000 AI deepfake penalty activating in days, how will victims unmask anonymous online creators to enforce it?
While Minnesota outlaws AI nudification apps this week, how will authorities distinguish illegal software from standard artistic editing tools?
As tech companies sue to block Minnesota's impending nudification ban, will courts rule this law violates the First Amendment?