Apple, Google Ordered to Remove 'Nudify' Apps

San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu issued directives to Apple and Google this week, demanding the removal of applications described as 'nudify' tools from their app stores. Chiu stated in letters to both technology giants that they have been aware for an extended period that these applications were being hosted in violation of California state law. The city attorney's office indicated that these apps, which can alter images to appear nude, are being used to create non-consensual pornography and are therefore illegal under state statutes.

Chiu's office highlighted that the continued availability of such applications on the App Store and Google Play Store facilitates harmful and illegal activities. The directives emphasize that both Apple and Google have a responsibility to ensure their platforms do not host or distribute content that violates established laws. The city attorney's office is seeking confirmation from both companies that they have taken action to comply with the order and have purged these specific applications from their digital marketplaces.

The legal action follows a broader trend of increased scrutiny on app store policies and the content they permit. "These applications are being used to create non-consensual pornography, which is illegal under California law," stated a spokesperson for the City Attorney's office. The order specifically targets apps that allow users to digitally alter images, often with the intent of generating explicit content without the consent of the individuals depicted. The San Francisco City Attorney's office is awaiting a response from Apple and Google detailing their compliance measures.