Psychologist urges urgent reform to battle deepfakes following teen's arrest

Yahoo

12-04-2025

Professor Dr Kamal Kenny Saravanan is disturbed by the recent report that a 16-year-old boy in Johor Bahru was arrested for allegedly using artificial intelligence (AI) to create pornographic images of his schoolmates and school alumni.
Eight reports were lodged against the student. The case is being investigated under Section 292 of the Penal Code for the sale, distribution, or circulation of obscene materials and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for sharing offensive and inappropriate content.
The psychologist said deepfakes are becoming a serious global concern, particularly within the digital and cyber landscape.
Kamal added that parents and schools must equip children with the knowledge and tools to navigate digital spaces safely, as there is a critical need to raise awareness about the dos and don'ts of social media use.
'It's no understatement to say that social media has become a child's modern-day playground. With this reality in mind, young people must be equipped with accessible, age-appropriate information about consent and boundaries,' Kamal told Twentytwo13.
'This knowledge empowers them to understand whether their actions — or the actions of others — are right or wrong, potentially preventing them from becoming either a victim or a perpetrator.
'Doing this can protect young people from harm and help them become responsible digital citizens in an increasingly complex online world.'
Schools and families must do more
Kamal said there is an urgent need to stop sweeping the 'controversial' topic under the rug. Ignoring these issues will only allow more young people to become silent victims of predators.
'It's time we take proactive steps in education, policy, and community dialogue to protect and empower our youth in the digital age,' he said.
Kamal suggested that the relevant authorities create digital platforms to educate young people about the dangers of deepfake technology and online misconduct.
One method would be through interactive online games designed specifically to highlight what constitutes harmful behaviour and how one could be held accountable.
'Imagine a game integrated into school curricula, where every student must complete it as part of their digital literacy or personal development programme.
'Through real-life scenarios and choices, they could learn about consent, boundaries, consequences, and the psychological impact of malicious online activity in a way that's engaging, age-appropriate, and memorable,' said Kamal.
'Schools should also integrate comprehensive digital safety and sex education into their curricula, focusing not only on biological aspects but also on the psychosocial impacts of online harm.'
Kamal said families must take an active role in monitoring their children's screen time and utilise appropriate tools or software to prevent malicious online predators from targeting them.
'Open communication between parents and children about online safety is key.'
Psychological impact
He said the psychological impact of such violations can be deeply damaging, especially for young people. This disturbing trend is reflected in the growing number of youths experiencing mental health challenges as a result of online abuse and exploitation.
Kamal said there is a danger to long-term mental health if the victims are threatened or manipulated by perpetrators who hint at or imply the existence of such content.
This fear can lead to anxiety, distrust, and underlying mental health challenges if the threats are prolonged or emotionally distressing.
'There needs to be more dialogue around the growing challenges faced by our youth. I've emphasised the importance of shifting from reactive measures to proactive, preventive strategies by policymakers,' said Kamal.
He added that there is a psychological connection between online anonymity and moral disengagement.
'The sense of anonymity on online platforms often gives individuals a false sense of detachment from their actions.
'When people feel they can't be identified, they're more likely to disregard moral responsibility, leading to increased risks of abuse, harassment, and even criminal behaviour.
'This highlights the urgent need for digital ethics education and stronger accountability mechanisms in online spaces.'