Hong Kong’s privacy watchdog has joined 60 other overseas authorities in warning against non-consensual AI-generated images depicting individuals, including children and other vulnerable groups.
AI-Generated Imagery: A Global Concern
Hong Kong’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) issued a joint statement on Monday, February 23, 2026, alongside authorities from Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, Recent Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
The joint statement notes that while artificial intelligence can offer benefits, recent advancements – particularly in AI image and video generation on social media platforms – have facilitated the creation of non-consensual intimate imagery, defamatory depictions and other harmful content.
Authorities expressed particular concern regarding potential harm to children and other vulnerable groups, including cyber-bullying and exploitation.
The co-signatories urged organizations developing or using AI systems to implement robust safeguards to prevent misuse of personal information and the generation of harmful materials, especially those depicting children. They likewise called for “effective and accessible mechanisms” for individuals to request the removal of AI-generated intimate or harmful images.
In Hong Kong, security minister Chris Tang stated in September that the government is considering expanding the city’s sexual offences laws to cover AI-generated “deepfake” porn. This consideration followed a case months earlier involving a University of Hong Kong student accused of using AI tools to create indecent images of classmates and teachers without their consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary concern raised in the joint statement?
The primary concern is the creation of non-consensual intimate imagery, defamatory depictions, and other harmful content featuring real individuals, facilitated by recent developments in AI image and video generation.
Which organizations co-signed the statement?
The co-signatories included organizations from Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
What action did the PCPD take last month regarding Elon Musk’s xAI?
The PCPD contacted Elon Musk’s xAI over its AI chatbot Grok, after reports that it was used to create indecent content from photos or videos of real women and children.
As AI technology continues to advance, how will regulators balance innovation with the need to protect individuals from potential harms?
