Please note that the guidance for England has been updated as of June 2026. Please delete any previously downloaded versions and replace them with the latest version to ensure you are working from the most current information and recommendations.
The rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) brings numerous benefits, but also poses significant risks, particularly concerning the creation and sharing of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), also referred to as AI-CSAM.
Our comprehensive guide, developed in collaboration with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) provides essential information for all professionals working with children and young people.
Why are these guides crucial for professionals?
- Stay Informed: Learn about the various ways AI can be misused to create child sexual abuse imagery, including the manipulation of existing images or the generation of entirely new content.
- Understand the Law: Gain clarity on the legal implications of AI-child sexual abuse material, which is considered illegal even if it's not photorealistic.
- Effective Response: Access clear guidance on how to respond to incidents involving AI-CSAM, treating them with the same urgency and care as any other child sexual abuse issue. This includes reporting procedures and crucial "dos and don'ts" when encountering such material.
- Support for Victims: Learn about providing wellbeing support to victims, who may experience significant emotional and psychological impact.
Updates to guidance as of June 2026
The updated guidance introduces several new areas of advice and strengthens existing safeguarding recommendations around the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This includes:
- Enhanced guidance on image consent processes, ensuring families understand how children's images are used
- Signposting to practical advice for organisations on protecting images from AI manipulation
- Highlighting a new resource for parents and carers, and information on how professionals can use it to reinforce safeguarding messages at home
All updates reflect the latest information and best practice. Please remove previously downloaded copies and replace them with the updated version to make sure you're referring to the most current guidance.
Social media pack
To support the launch of this vital new resource on AI-generated child sexual abuse material, we've created a social media pack featuring suggested messaging and supporting visuals for use online and in newsletters - helping you raise awareness and share guidance with your networks.
DOWNLOAD SOCIAL MEDIA PACK
