Singapore criminalises AI-generated abuse images

Singapore's parliament passed legislation on Monday to criminalize the creation and use of artificial intelligence-generated intimate images without consent. The new law aims to combat online sexual abuse and protect citizens from exploitation. Offenders who produce or use such explicit materials without consent could face up to two years in prison, a fine, or both. If the images depict a minor under the age of 14, the punishment increases to mandatory imprisonment for up to two years, along with a fine or caning.

The legislation also expands the scope of prosecution to include offenders suspected of grooming minors abroad and then sexually abusing them, provided either the perpetrator or the victim traveled from Singapore before the crime was committed. Those found guilty of such offenses could face stricter penalties, including up to seven years in prison for offenses involving victims under 14.

Home Affairs Minister Sim Ann emphasized that the legislation seeks to reduce barriers to enforcement and break the cycle of abuse by addressing the supply of AI-generated materials. Singapore continues to permit judicial caning as a form of punishment, including for certain serious sexual offenses such as rape and aggravated molestation.

However, the revised legislation removes mandatory corporal punishment for crimes like piracy, attempted robbery, and carrying an illegal weapon, allowing judges to impose the sentence on a discretionary basis.