Deepfakes and AI technology is here to stay: Here's what parents must do

"It is crucial to recognise and address signs of digital harassment," says Jackie Bateman of Kids First Australia.

Two high schools in Australia have in recent weeks been embroiled in an unfolding AI deep fake photo scandal that has rocked the nation.

While the male students from both the Newcastle and Melbourne high schools have been disciplined, parents and teachers alike are struggling to understand how to navigate this complex issue of cyber safety in the future. 

Jackie Bateman, General Manager of Prevention and Recovery from Kids First Australia is a renowned therapist who works with young people who experience or exhibit harmful sexual behaviours has over 20 years of practice experience. 

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"They don't always grasp the gravity of their actions"

She says that the way both the Newcastle and Melbourne schools handled the issue, highlights a huge knowledge gap around an appropriate response in this emerging scenario of digital harassment.

“The boys engaging in harmful behaviours don’t always grasp the gravity or impact of their actions,” Bateman says.

“Traditional methods of school discipline are not adequate to address this knowledge gap. Simply suspending or expelling students does not help the situation as the boys grow up; it's a short-term solution.”

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"Parents need to start with open, honest conversations"

Bateman says that even before our kids hit high school age, parents need to play a crucial role in guiding young people through the complexities of the digital age, including AI technology.

“Parents should start by having open, honest conversations about the ethical implications of creating and sharing explicit deep fake images,” Bateman tells Kidspot.

“They should be explaining the potential harm these actions can cause, both emotionally and reputationally. It's important to emphasize empathy and respect for others' privacy and dignity.

“Parents should also be educating their children about the legal consequences of sharing deep fake images, as creating and distributing explicit images without consent is a serious offense and the consequences for them could be serious and life-long.”

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"Agree on time limits for screen time"

Bateman suggests establishing clear family guidelines on technology use and monitoring online activity.

“Agree on time limits for screen time, and adhere to these yourself – we do as we see,” she says.

“Ideally, PCs and laptops should be located in communal areas of the home, but if devices must be located in a bedroom or study, perform regular ‘check-ins.’ 

“Encourage your children to report any inappropriate content they encounter or feel pressured to participate in and build in family time activities away from screens.”

With AI technology very much here to stay, Jackie says education and collaboration is key.

“We must teach young people digital literacy, including understanding the ethical implications of its use and potential misuse, as well as the fact that AI is not reality,” Jackie tells Kidspot.

“Promoting critical thinking skills will help them discern and question the content they encounter online. 

“We also need to advocate for stronger regulations and safeguards that address AI misuse, ensuring that developers prioritise ethical considerations in their innovations. 

“Collaboration between tech companies, educators, and policymakers can lead to the development of tools that detect and prevent the spread of harmful deep fake content. 

“By fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness, we can maximise AI's positive impact while protecting everyone from its potential harms.”

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"Digital safety needs to be part of the curriculum"

For schools, Jackie says that there are several immediate steps they can take to address the issue of AI-led bullying and the creation of explicit deep fake images. 

“Integrate digital citizenship and online safety education into the curriculum, emphasizing the ethical use of technology and the impact of digital actions.

“Training teachers to recognise and address signs of digital harassment is also crucial. Schools can establish clear policies and consequences for creating and sharing inappropriate content, ensuring that students understand the seriousness of these actions. 

“Creating a supportive environment where students feel comfortable reporting incidents is essential. Schools can collaborate with local organisations, like Kids First, to provide workshops and resources on digital safety and the responsible use of AI. By proactively addressing the issue, schools can create a safer and more respectful online community.”

Finally Jackie says that counselling of victims and engagement with specialist services, like those at Kids First Australia, are going to help build resilience and help teenagers navigate this complex modern world.

“Through counselling, victim survivors can regain a sense of control and self-worth, learning to navigate the emotional aftermath of their experiences,” she adds before advising on the best approach for the youth displaying harmful behaviour: “Engagement with specialist services like ours can help them understand the gravity of their actions. We encourage critical thinking about their own and peers’ behaviour.”

She says that young men need help and a safe space to explore what healthy masculinity looks like.“Counselling is an opportunity to communicate with emotional authenticity, vulnerability, and empathy, so that they may reimagine what their own masculinity could look like. 

“Ultimately, counselling for those engaged in these behaviours aims to foster a more empathetic and responsible generation, better equipped to navigate the digital landscape.”

For more information on Kids First Australia programs and counselling services, visit their website.

Originally published as Deepfakes and AI technology is here to stay: Here's what parents must do