Some artificial intelligence apps capable of creating sexualised images from ordinary photographs remain accessible to teenagers despite parental controls on Apple and Google platforms, according to a new investigation.
The report by the Tech Transparency Project found weaknesses in age restrictions and app screening after researchers tested accounts designed to represent 13-year-old users.
The investigation identified 135 apps with image-manipulation features that could be used to generate non-consensual intimate imagery.
The findings raise questions about how effectively app stores enforce their own rules and whether parental controls are sufficient to prevent young users from accessing potentially harmful tools.
The report also highlighted concerns about apps being incorrectly rated as suitable for minors and subscription features that may not trigger parental notifications.
The issue has attracted attention from families whose children have been targeted by AI-generated imagery made using photographs taken from social media or other online sources.
Apple said it had updated its moderation guidelines and removed some of the apps identified in the report. Google said it regularly removes harmful content from its platform.
However, the investigation found that enforcement measures did not always prevent access, including in cases where apps had already been downloaded.
The findings add to broader concerns about the misuse of generative AI, particularly the creation of fabricated intimate images without a person’s consent.
The report places renewed scrutiny on technology companies’ responsibility to strengthen age verification, improve app-store screening and respond more quickly when harmful applications are identified.
