Global crackdown on AI-generated child sexual abuse material leads to 25 arrests

More than two dozen suspected members of a criminal group were recently arrested for allegedly distributing sexual images of minors generated by artificial intelligence.

“Operation Cumberland,” led by Danish law enforcement and supported by agencies in 18 other countries, identified 273 suspects and more arrests are expected in the coming weeks, according to a press release from Europol. The operation also involved 33 house searches and 173 seized electronic devices so far.

The main suspect, an unnamed Danish national, was arrested in November 2024 for running an online platform that distributed the AI-generated material. Users from around the world were able to pay for access to the images and videos.

The operation is one of the first investigations involving AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM), according to Europol. Although there were no real victims depicted in the videos, AI models can alter genuine footage and make it harder to identify source material.

“These artificially generated images are so easily created that they can be produced by individuals with criminal intent, even without substantial technical knowledge,” said Europol Executive Director Catherine De Bolle in a statement. “This contributes to the growing prevalence of child sexual abuse material, and as the volume increases, it becomes progressively more challenging for investigators to identify offenders or victims.”

As part of the operation, Europol and its partners are planning to launch an online campaign highlighting the consequences of using AI aimed at people buying illegal content. They also will send out warning letters and perform knock-and-talks — a law enforcement tactic that involves knocking on a suspect’s door and asking to search the premises.