In one paragraph
New Jersey's S3551 would amend the criminal invasion of privacy law to cover deepfake images. Recording an actual or deepfake image of a person's exposed intimate parts or sexual activity without consent would be a third-degree crime, and disclosing a deepfake of another person created in that way, knowing or with reckless disregard of lacking a license or privilege, would be a fourth-degree crime. Threatening to disclose such an image would count as criminal coercion. Introduced September 12, 2024. A bill of the Legislature's 2024-2025 session, which ended January 13, 2026.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
People who create or share sexually explicit deepfakes of someone without consent would face criminal charges. Ordinary media businesses face no new duties unless they do this.
Key provisions
- Section 1b(1): photographing, filming or reproducing an actual or deepfake image of exposed intimate parts or sexual activity without consent is a third-degree crime.
- Section 1c: knowingly, or with reckless disregard of any license or privilege, disclosing a deepfake based on another's image created in violation of subsection b is a fourth-degree crime; a fine of up to $30,000 may be imposed.
- 'Deepfake': an image, video or audio recording of speech or conduct created using advanced computer technology in a way that makes it look authentic.
- Section 1d: affirmative defense if the actor gave prior notice and acted for a lawful purpose.
- Section 2: a threat to disclose an actual or deepfake image created in violation of the law is added to criminal coercion.
- Section 3: takes effect immediately.
Latest legislative action
Sep 12, 2024. Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Sponsors
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Kristin Corrado R | Sponsor | SD-040 |
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error