Italy approves AI law with prison terms for sharing deepfakes

Italy's parliament has approved a new framework law on artificial intelligence that makes the distribution of AI-generated images or videos without the consent of those depicted punishable by up to five years in prison.

The measure, backed by both chambers of parliament — including a final 77–55 vote in the Senate late Wednesday — targets individuals and businesses that circulate AI-created photos or videos without permission.

In cases of so-called deepfakes, it can appear that someone said or did something they never actually did.

Lawmakers acted after a series of recent cases involving AI-generated pornographic videos, in which women, including public figures, were often the victims.

According to the government in Rome, Italy is the first EU country to establish a national legal framework that incorporates new European Union AI guidelines.

The law sets out general principles for the use of artificial intelligence and instructs the government to draft detailed regulations on the use of AI systems.