KARACHI:
A child’s face can now be taken from an ordinary photo and turned into something extremely harmful within minutes. This is a frightening reality for children in Pakistan. AI can be used to create fake sexual images, fake videos, fake voices and fake accounts involving children. A child does not have to send a private picture to become a target. A school photograph, social media post or family picture can be stolen and misused.
The damage can be severe. A child may face bullying, shame, threats, blackmail, fear, isolation and pressure to leave school. Parents may panic. Families may blame the child. The person behind the abuse may hide behind a fake account and keep demanding money or more images. Therefore, children need clear lessons about online safety and their parents should check privacy settings, think carefully before posting children’s pictures and teach children never to send private images or meet online contacts alone. Schools need a clear way to report digital abuse. Platforms need to remove abusive material rapidly and protect children from repeat attacks. If a child is targeted, save evidence, stop replying to the offender, report the account and seek help from trusted adults and relevant authorities. A fake image can be created in minutes. The protection must start before that happens.
Muhammad Shahjahan Memon
Islamabad
