Pastoral Care
The Risks and Realities of AI Abuse
As advancements in generated artificial intelligence (Gen AI) continue to shape the digital landscape, it is crucial to be aware of how this technology can be misused, especially within the context of online safety for our young people. AI-generated content, including fake images and videos, is becoming increasingly realistic and accessible, posing new challenges for schools, families, and communities.
What is Gen AI Abuse?
It refers to using Gen AI technology to create, alter, or distribute content that can harm individuals. Examples include:
- Deepfakes: Manipulated videos or images that appear authentic but are entirely fabricated.
- Gen AI Explicit Content: Realistic but fake images created without consent.
- Identity Manipulation: Using Gen AI tools to impersonate someone online.
The Impact on Young People
AI abuse can target young people and staff, leading to severe emotional distress, reputational harm, and legal consequences. For students, the ability to create or share such content may feel like a joke, but the repercussions are far-reaching and long-lasting.
St Paul's Stance
We uphold the values of respect, integrity, and dignity within our Catholic community. The creation or sharing of Gen AI content that harms others is strictly prohibited and will result in serious consequences.
How Parents Can Respond
- Stay Informed: Learn about AI tools and their potential for misuse. Discuss these risks openly with your young person.
- Encourage Empathy: Help your young person understand the human impact of their online actions, emphasising kindness and respect.
- Promote Accountability: Teach your young person to think critically about the content they create or share and its potential consequences.
- Support Reporting: Encourage your young person to report inappropriate or harmful content, whether they witness or experience it.
Conversation Starters for Parents
- ‘Have you come across Gen AI content, like deepfakes or altered images? How do you think they could be used positively or negatively?’
- ‘Do you think there are ways we can make certain what we are seeing online is real?
- ‘How can we ensure that the technology we use is helping, not hurting, others?’
- ‘What would you do if you saw someone sharing fake or harmful content about someone else?’
By working together, we can equip our young people with the knowledge and values to navigate these emerging challenges responsibly. Let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and faith-filled community for everyone.
Mrs Krystal Brady - Leader of Pastoral Care