Television personality Vicky Pattison recently faced significant criticism after sharing a deepfake sex tape of herself on Twitter as part of a Channel 4 documentary aimed at highlighting the dangers of AI-generated image abuse. The documentary intended to shed light on the pervasive issue of online abuse and its impact on women.
However, the move was met with backlash from various quarters, including victims of image-based abuse, who accused Pattison of trivializing their experiences. Critics argued that by creating and sharing a deepfake, even for awareness purposes, Pattison inadvertently disrespected those who have suffered from such violations.
In response to the criticism, Pattison engaged with survivors who supported her approach, emphasizing her commitment to women’s rights and the necessity of addressing online abuse. She expressed that her decision, though controversial, was driven by a desire to create a safer online environment, especially as she contemplates starting a family.
The documentary also showcased Pattison’s efforts to remove the deepfake from the internet, highlighting the challenges individuals face in combating such content. Despite the controversy, Pattison remains steadfast in her advocacy for stronger legislation and support systems for victims of online abuse, hoping her actions will lead to meaningful change.
