In a recent investigation, researchers found that artificial intelligence-based image-editing applications capable of generating nonconsensual nude or pornographic images remain widely accessible to teenagers through major app stores, despite existing parental controls and platform guidelines. The report, conducted by the digital advocacy group Tech Transparency Project (TTP), highlights the ongoing availability of these so-called “nudify” apps on Apple’s App Store and Google Play, raising concerns about the potential exploitation of minors.

The research involved creating four test user accounts—two on Apple and two on Google—each registered with a birthdate indicating the user was 13 years old. Using search terms such as “AI video generator” and “adult AI,” the researchers identified and downloaded 135 applications that offered features to digitally strip clothes or swap faces onto nude bodies. The AI-generated images used in the tests featured synthetic depictions of women rather than photos of real individuals.

One notable case cited in the report involved a Pennsylvania mother, Morgan Dorfman, who discovered that a student at her daughter’s high school was using the app Movely to produce pornographic videos featuring her daughter’s image. Dorfman described the incident as causing fear and confusion among the girls involved. Her subsequent review of Movely found both free and paid versions of the app promoted sexually explicit templates, including simulated clothing removal and other suggestive effects.

Apple and Google maintain policies banning apps that promote nonconsensual intimate imagery or nudification. Both companies also impose age restrictions to limit access by minors. However, the TTP investigation revealed significant gaps in enforcement and the effectiveness of these controls. Many offending apps were inaccurately rated as appropriate for users as young as 13, enabling unrestricted access even when parental controls were engaged. In some cases, apps marketed with explicit sexual imagery were rated suitable for children as young as four.

In one example, researchers accessed a face-swapping app that encouraged users to superimpose real women’s faces onto provocative images. Subscriptions to premium features with more explicit content were reportedly available without parental notification. Another app, Image to Video Maker-Vidou AI, rated for users nine and older, opened with an image of a topless woman and advertised a feature to digitally undress individuals, showcasing nude images of female celebrities as demonstrations.

Apple responded to the report by updating its content moderation policies to strengthen requirements on developers to prevent and remove nonconsensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated images. The company emphasized its ongoing app review process and stated it has taken actions including removing developers who engage in deceptive “bait-and-switch” tactics aimed at introducing prohibited features after approval. An Apple spokesperson highlighted that some apps identified in the study are legitimate photo and video editing tools without nudification capabilities.

Google acknowledged taking proactive steps to detect and remove harmful content, including suspending violating apps and restricting related search terms. A Google representative stated the company investigates reported violations and takes swift action when necessary.

The study also revealed that parental controls on both platforms do not always require or suggest parental approval before downloading nudification apps. While Apple’s system prompted users to confirm they were at least 17 years old before accessing some age-restricted apps, the confirmation was accepted even from accounts registered as age 13. Google’s controls blocked some downloads but ultimately allowed numerous nudification apps to be installed.

The findings underscore ongoing challenges in regulating AI-driven content and protecting minors from exposure to nonconsensual and sexually explicit material online. Despite legal frameworks and company policies, critical enforcement gaps persist, leaving teenagers vulnerable to the misuse of emerging AI technologies.