Trenton, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has enacted a new law to address the issue of unlawfully created or distributed deepfakes. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Kristin Corrado (R-40), introduces penalties for those who produce or circulate deepfake media for unlawful purposes.
Senator Corrado emphasized the severe impact of sharing deepfakes on victims, likening it to the unauthorized distribution of real media. She highlighted concerns over deepfakes created using artificial intelligence, especially in the realm of pornography, and stressed the need for transparency and accountability in digital media.
The law categorizes creating or sharing illegal deepfake media as a third-degree crime. Convictions can lead to three to five years of imprisonment, fines up to $15,000, or both. Courts may also impose fines up to $30,000. Besides criminal penalties, individuals portrayed in unlawful deepfake media can pursue civil liability against creators or distributors.
The full text of the legislative measures S-2544/A-3540 can be accessed online for more detailed information.