On 20 May 2026 the FTC sent warning letters to 12 companies offering “nudify” tools, apps and sites that use AI to make it look like a real person is undressed. The day before, the FTC had started enforcing the Take It Down Act.
What happened
According to the FTC, the companies appeared to have no process for people to request removal of intimate images made without their consent, which the Take It Down Act requires of covered platforms. The letters urged them to comply immediately. Violations can bring civil penalties of up to $53,088 each.
Why it matters for creators
Creators’ photos are public, which makes them easy targets for AI fakes. The Take It Down Act gives anyone depicted a way to have intimate images, including AI-made ones, removed from covered US platforms within 48 hours of a valid request. The FTC’s letters show it intends to enforce that.
What you can do
- 01Save the evidenceLinks and dated screenshots. Don’t share the image.
- 02Use the platform’s removal processIntimate image or Take It Down request where available.
- 03Remove it from searchGoogle and Bing both have removal forms.
- 04Use copyright where it fitsIf the fake was made from your own photo or video.
Read more in AI fakes and “nudify” apps: your rights in 2026.
