UK Privacy Watchdog Issues Global Warning Over AI Generated Images Without Consent

Britain’s data protection regulator has joined dozens of international authorities in warning about the growing risks posed by artificial intelligence tools that generate realistic images of identifiable individuals without their consent.

In a joint statement released on Monday, the Information Commissioner’s Office said regulators around the world are increasingly concerned about the privacy, safety and dignity implications of AI generated imagery. The statement calls on organisations developing or deploying such technologies to build in strong safeguards from the outset and to engage proactively with regulators.

The watchdog stressed that rapid advances in generative AI have made it easier than ever to create convincing images that appear to show real people in situations that never occurred. These images can be produced using publicly available photographs, scraped data or limited reference material, raising serious questions about data protection compliance and individual rights.

The ICO said particular concern surrounds the potential harm to children. AI systems can be used to create altered or fabricated images of minors, which may circulate online without their knowledge or consent. Regulators warned that once such content is shared, it can be difficult or impossible to remove entirely, compounding the damage.

Under UK data protection law, personal data includes any information relating to an identifiable person. If an AI generated image can be linked to a specific individual, it may fall within the scope of existing privacy rules. The ICO emphasised that organisations must have a lawful basis for processing personal data and must consider fairness, transparency and accountability when designing AI systems.

The joint statement reflects growing international cooperation on digital regulation. Authorities from multiple jurisdictions signed the document, signalling a coordinated approach to emerging AI risks. Regulators are increasingly concerned that innovation is moving faster than governance frameworks, particularly in areas such as deepfake technology and synthetic media.

Privacy experts say AI generated images can undermine trust in digital content and expose individuals to reputational harm, harassment or fraud. Fabricated images may also be used in scams, disinformation campaigns or identity theft schemes. For public figures and private citizens alike, distinguishing between authentic and manipulated content is becoming more challenging.

The ICO has previously issued guidance on artificial intelligence and data protection, urging companies to carry out impact assessments and embed privacy by design principles into new systems. The latest statement reinforces that message and signals that enforcement action could follow where organisations fail to meet their obligations.

As AI tools become more accessible and widely used, regulators are seeking to balance technological progress with the protection of fundamental rights. The ICO said ensuring that innovation does not come at the expense of privacy and safety remains a central priority.