Guwahati: In today’s digital age, technology is reshaping lives, and AI has become an integral part of that transformation. However, it has also emerged as one of the most alarming threats to child safety online. Images of minors uploaded on social platforms are digitally manipulated and circulated within minutes, causing deep emotional and reputational harm.
Experts Warn of Growing Risks
Experts warn that schools and parents are equally vulnerable, as social media platforms have become easy channels for misuse. They stress the need for swift yet cautious engagement to protect minors.
“Sharing digitally altered images and videos of minors without consent can have serious consequences. Even AI-generated content must not be circulated without the knowledge and permission of the person concerned,” said Shravani Bhattacharya, a city-based psychotherapist.
Call for AI Literacy and Legal Awareness
She also highlighted the need for urgent awareness among families and educational institutions regarding child protection laws, including the POCSO Act, so that students understand both their rights and responsibilities in the digital space.
“There must be AI literacy — both students and parents should be equipped with sufficient knowledge about deepfakes and other forms of digital manipulation. Understanding a person’s authentic appearance, behaviour, and online presence can help distinguish genuine content from fabricated material,” she added.
Importance of Open Communication
Senior psychologist Nimi Borgohain emphasised the importance of open communication, encouraging victims to speak with someone they trust to help them process the incident. She noted that such conversations often help victims express trauma, reduce self-blame, and gradually regain emotional stability.
“Parents must also provide emotional support to victims and remain calm so they can make the right decisions. They should avoid frequently sharing their children’s pictures on social media, as this can lead to privacy breaches, misuse of images, and unwanted attention,” she said.
Balancing Screen Time and Offline Activities
Meanwhile, Chumki Bora, superintendent of the Assam Child and Welfare Society, highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy balance by guiding and monitoring children’s screen time rather than allowing unrestricted access. Setting clear boundaries and encouraging offline activities, she said, is essential for healthy physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
She added that people who share or create AI-generated content should not be judged with immediate suspicion or treated as criminals, as such assumptions can unfairly stigmatise individuals and have long-term negative effects on their reputation.
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About the Author
Tathagata Bhattacharjee
He is based in Guwahati and with over a year of experience, he covers topics related to civic issues, environment, and government policy in the Northeast region. He is known for reporting on regional developments and social issues.
