Deepnude AI is a technology that undresses photos of clothed people and presents them as nude. It coined its name from the very first AI tool after its nature, which was named Deep Nude. In reality, Deepnude AI is a deep fake tool that specializes in creating explicit and sexually suggestive photos.
In its first release in 2019, Deepnude faced a lot of outrage and backlash. Rightfully so, due to its ethical and moral transgressions. It was promptly taken down, however, similar tools continue to resurface online.
The obvious reasons for outrage are the breaches of privacy and lack of consent that Deepnude AI represents. But there is another reason for concern: security threats. The link isn’t immediately apparent. However, this article will uncover the ways Deepnude poses security threats.
Also read: Why Undress AI Tools are Problematic
The Security Threats of Deepnude AI
1. Malware Distribution and Cyber Threats
Although the original Deepnude AI tool was discontinued in 2019 due to backlash, there’s still a demand. Cybercriminals have used the opportunity of this market void to weaponize desire (fantasy/ curiosity/ instant gratification).
Typically, they employ social engineering tactics to spread Malware under the false front of a Deepnude tool. These tools, laced with malware, access the user’s device and collect sensitive information.
They could access bank accounts, digital footprints, passwords, and anything that could be used for criminal activities. It’s easy for the cybercriminals to do this because Deepnude AI is illegal and is not subject to the legal scrutiny of legitimate apps.
A great example is Qulab Stealer. This information-seeking malware was discovered in several Deep-Nude-labeled downloads. Once installed, it runs silently in the background. Then:
- It extracts browser credentials (including usernames and passwords).
- Steals cookies that may allow attackers to hijack active sessions on websites.
- Scans and exports clipboard data, often targeting cryptocurrency wallet addresses.
- Searches for and exfiltrates browser autofill data and saved form inputs.
Unfortunately, the illegitimacy of a Deepnude AI excludes these tools from requiring legal scrutiny and permissions. Victims often don’t realize they’ve been compromised until they experience financial loss, credential breaches, or suspicious account activity.
2. Data Losses
Sometimes, security threats are targeted actions by highly organized cybercriminal groups like FIN7. Key executives in businesses and financial institutions are noted. This isn’t by chance but a purposeful targeting to infiltrate larger networks, plant backdoors, or steal corporate data.
These groups then proceed to learn as much as possible about them to discover weaknesses and guilty pleasures. They then create fake websites mimicking DeepNude’s interface and entice them to upload images to be nudified. The resulting download will be laced with sophisticated malware that could be used to grant remote access and surveillance.
They use the malware to log keystrokes, capture screenshots, and upload/ download files.
With all these abilities, the data firewalls and security systems can be breached. This often results in huge losses to these firms.
One reason why these attacks succeed is the psychological leverage involved. Users are less likely to report malware or suspicious activity if it originated from an ethically questionable pleasure.
3. Undermined Trust in Digital Media
Due to the trend of deepfakes, people are increasingly skeptical of digital media. In late January, 2024, popular musician Taylor Swift was a victim of AI-generated porn. Even though it was eventually taken down, it garnered millions of views and shares.
After being debunked as fake, there was widespread doubt about the authenticity of images and videos.
4. Damaged Reputations
Manipulated Images can be used to spread false and defamatory information about individuals and organizations. And this goes beyond the personal level. Employees of a significant company can become targets of deep nudes.
When the Deepnudes become public, the reputation of employees and the company’s brand image takes a hit. This is because it could fuel a misconception of a company’s lack of regard for ethics.
4. The Dark Web Economy
Data can be collected from security breaches as a result of malware-laced Deepnude AI websites. When this happens, the data (explicit images, credentials, and browser data) is often sold on underground forums, fueling further scams and extortion schemes.
The Solution
1. User Awareness and Education
Education will go a long way in convincing people against the use of illegal software. Being illegitimate, the malicious attackers hide behind the lack of legal frameworks and policies. The software may be free to use, but the risk of a cybersecurity attack is not worth it. They should also be provided with real-world examples of malware disguised as Deepnude AI tools.
2. Monitoring and Threat Intelligence
Sometimes, preventive measures are not enough. Individuals and organizations can go a step further by adopting continuous monitoring and threat intelligence. These strategies can detect and provide a swift response to malicious activity that slips past security filters.
One of the most reliable ways to uncover a DeepNude-related breach is through constant vigilance of system and network logs. Malware such as NetSupport RAT or btly after bypassing initial defenses.
However, they always leave digital footprints behind. They have behavioral patterns that signal a compromise. The signs are usually tell-tale: unknown IP addresses (especially those tied to foreign or anonymized networks), high outbound traffic during odd hours, or data being sent in encrypted chunks to suspicious domains.
The Bottom Line
Deepnude AI’s impact goes beyond the obvious ethical concern of privacy. The technology can be used to inflict malicious attacks on unsuspecting individuals and enterprises. If unchecked, cybercriminal activities may skyrocket.
