The National Crime Agency (NCA) and the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) are warning parents to be cautious about sharing images of their children online due to the growing threat of AI-generated abuse imagery.

According to IWF, over 8,000 realistic child sexual abuse images and videos were identified in 2025 – a 14% increase from the previous year. The guidance advises parents to review privacy settings, check social media accounts for identifying details, and revisit image consent with friends and family.

“AI has many benefits, but it can also be misused,” says the NCA. They highlight that while efforts are being made to tackle these threats, prevention remains key.”

The guidance suggests forming a “close friends” group for parents keen to share images, as well as discussing with children how and where their image is taken or shared – making them more comfortable in saying no.

This advice comes after years of warnings about the risks of sharenting. With AI’s increasing capabilities, experts urge awareness over casual sharing.