Canadian Members of Parliament have voted to amend a bill that criminalizes sexually explicit deepfake images, broadening its scope to include 'nearly nude' depictions. The amendment, passed on May 11, 2026, aims to close legal loopholes and enhance protections for victims of digital exploitation.
Key Changes to the Bill
The original legislation targeted non-consensual distribution of sexually explicit deepfake images. However, critics argued that the definition was too narrow, leaving many victims without recourse. The new amendment expands the definition to include images that are 'nearly nude' or sexually suggestive, even if not fully explicit.
Bipartisan Support
The amendment received broad bipartisan support, with MPs from all major parties backing the change. Justice Minister Arif Virani stated, 'This amendment ensures that the law keeps pace with evolving technology and protects Canadians from all forms of digital sexual exploitation.'
Victim Advocacy
Victim advocacy groups praised the move, calling it a crucial step forward. 'Nearly nude deepfakes can be just as damaging as explicit ones,' said Sarah Thompson, executive director of the Digital Safety Coalition. 'This amendment recognizes that reality and provides stronger legal protections.'
Opposition Concerns
Some privacy advocates expressed concerns about potential overreach, arguing that the definition of 'nearly nude' could be subjective. However, the government maintained that the amendment includes clear guidelines to prevent misuse.
Next Steps
The bill now moves to the Senate for further debate. If passed, it will become law later this year. The amendment is part of a broader government effort to combat online harms, including a proposed online safety act.
This development comes amid growing public concern over deepfake technology, which uses artificial intelligence to create realistic but fake images and videos. The Canadian government has pledged to stay ahead of such threats to protect citizens' privacy and dignity.
