A recent report highlights a troubling trend where mainstream social media platforms, including YouTube and X, are inadvertently directing users to websites that facilitate the creation of nonconsensual sexually explicit deepfakes. Conducted by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), the study exposes a disturbing connection between these platforms and “nudify” apps that allow users to digitally undress individuals without their consent.
Between December 2025 and March 2026, social networks funneled over 5.7 million visits to nudify sites. YouTube emerged as the largest contributor, totaling 1.82 million visits, which accounts for over 30% of the referrals. This surge in traffic is linked to video content related to terms such as "undress app" and promotions for specific nudify tools.
Despite YouTube’s policies against sexually explicit content, the study claims that such content related to nudify websites was easily searchable and accessible, contradicting the platform’s regulations. Melanie Smith, senior director of research and policy for ISD, noted that YouTube actively facilitates the use of these tools instead of merely being a passive traffic source.
In response to inquiries about these findings, a YouTube spokesperson affirmed the company’s commitment to prohibiting unwanted sexualization and nonconsensual imagery, asserting that their policies extend to external links as well.
The ISD report also shed light on the economics of these nudification tools, revealing that some apps allow users to create such imagery for as little as $1. This alarming accessibility contributes to the significant revenue generation within this dark corner of the internet, with estimates suggesting annual profits could reach up to $36 million.
Interestingly, the motivations behind using these tools often extend beyond mere sexual gratification; some individuals aim to harm others by compromising their livelihoods or reputations.
Nudify apps are proliferating, posing serious concerns across various social media platforms. For instance, earlier this year, X faced backlash following the use of its AI chatbot Grok to produce nonconsensual images of women, including minors. This backlash led to restrictions on the chatbot’s access, emphasizing the platform’s zero-tolerance stance towards such content.
While nonconsensual intimate images (NCII) are illegal in the U.S., enforcing regulations remains a challenge. The recent federal Take It Down Act mandates rapid removal of such images once a victim requests it, and states like Minnesota are taking further steps by specifically banning nudification apps. However, the proliferation of these tools suggests they will remain a significant issue unless comprehensive systemic responses, including better platform regulations and digital literacy education, are implemented.
The findings underscore urgent calls for coordinated efforts as cases of deepfake incidents are being reported in schools globally. The persistent issue of nudify apps illustrates the need for a more effective strategy to combat their spread and effects.
