Congress Passes Bipartisan Bill Criminalizing Revenge Porn, Deepfakes

Congress has overwhelmingly passed the bipartisan Take It Down Act, which criminalizes the nonconsensual dissemination of sexually explicit images, including those generated by artificial intelligence, and requires platforms such as social networks to remove such content within 48 hours of notification. The legislation, supported by both parties and championed by First Lady Melania Trump, addresses gaps in existing state laws that often failed to protect victims from deepfakes and revenge porn. Offenders could face prison time and fines, with stricter penalties for cases involving minors. While advocates and lawmakers praise the bill as a significant step toward protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable, digital rights groups and some dissenting lawmakers warn that its broad definitions and rapid takedown requirements could lead to abuse and over-censorship by platforms. Critics are concerned automated removal systems may result in legitimate content being taken down without proper review. President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law imminently.