DEFIANCE Act of 2025

# DEFIANCE Act of 2025 Summary The DEFIANCE Act of 2025 is legislation designed to combat non-consensual intimate imagery (often called "deepfake pornography" or intimate image abuse) online. The bill would make it illegal to create, distribute, or possess sexually explicit images or videos of real people without their consent, including AI-generated or digitally altered images. It also addresses related harms like harassment, fraud, and identity theft connected to these images.

The bill creates federal penalties for violations and allows victims to pursue civil lawsuits against those responsible. **Who It Affects:** The law would apply to anyone creating or sharing non-consensual intimate images online, while also protecting victims—particularly women, who are disproportionately targeted by this abuse. Tech platforms, law enforcement, and the courts would also be involved in enforcement. **Key Provisions:** The bill establishes federal criminal penalties for creating or distributing non-consensual intimate images, allows victims to sue perpetrators for damages, and requires reasonable efforts to remove such content from online platforms. It balances free speech protections with privacy rights. **Current Status:** The bill has passed the Senate and awaits consideration in the House of Representatives.