Deepfake Ban Takes Effect Amid Concerns Over Censorship and Efficacy

A landmark law requiring social networks to swiftly remove nonconsensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated deepfakes, has officially come into force. Effective May 19th, 2026, the Take It Down Act’s takedown provision obliges platforms to swiftly delete such content within hours of being reported. Critics argue that this measure may not adequately safeguard victims and could inadvertently stifle online free speech.