To shield kids, California hikes fake nude fines to $250K max

In a significant move to enhance child safety, California is intensifying regulations on AI technologies that pose risks to young users. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed groundbreaking legislation that targets two pressing issues: the regulation of companion bots and the crackdown on deepfake pornography. Beginning January 1, 2026, the new law mandates that all companion bot platforms—including prominent names like ChatGPT and Character.AI—must establish and publicly disclose protocols aimed at identifying and addressing suicidal thoughts and self-harm expressions among users. Additionally, these platforms are required to report to the Department of Public Health the frequency with which they provide users with notifications from crisis centers. This data will also be accessible on the platforms' websites, offering valuable insights for lawmakers and parents alike. The legislation further stipulates that companion bots cannot misrepresent themselves as therapists and must prioritize child safety. This includes implementing measures to remind children to take breaks and restricting access to explicit content. Moreover, the state has bolstered penalties for individuals who create deepfake pornography, a significant step in combating cyberbullying targeting minors. Victims, including those under 18, can now seek damages of up to $250,000 for any nonconsensual sexually explicit material disseminated by third parties using AI technologies. Previously, the law allowed for recovery of damages between $1,500 and $30,000, or $150,000 for malicious violations. Senator Steve Padilla, the sponsor of the companion bot legislation, expressed optimism about these new protections, stating they will lay the groundwork for future regulations as technology continues to evolve. This initiative marks California's commitment to safeguarding children in an increasingly digital world.