Stefanie Yuen Thio was quoted in Lianhe Zaobao by Gwen Lee Geng Wei. The article covered plans to amend the law in Singapore, to criminalise AI-generated deepfake pornography (p. 1).

Stefanie was quoted in her capacity as the Chairperson of SHE, saying that AI-generated deepfake porn is a worrying trend locally and globally. She addressed how a momentary prank can lead to lifelong trauma and that while such behaviour is not common locally at present, clearly defining such behaviour as a crime will send a strong signal that such behaviour is unacceptable.

Stefanie also shared that victims may feel ashamed, humiliated and guilty, and therefore be afraid to make a report and file lawsuits. She highlighted that while legislative action is a positive development, it is still not enough, and that society must clarify and promote what is acceptable online behaviour.

She pointed out that schools, parents and the public should understand the digital world and its appropriate boundaries, and the available channels for help, and that the country should start considering providing appropriate rehabilitation programme for “offenders”.