Children face sexualised messages and deepfakes on clothing resale apps

Children’s clothes and photos listed on resale apps are receiving sexualised messages, and some images have been stolen or altered into explicit AI deepfakes. The reports have prompted ministers to consider extending a proposed under-16s social media ban to online marketplaces, raising questions about how to protect young users while preserving their access to the internet.

One parent reported a man asking whether a seven-year-old had worn a swimming costume listed on Vinted; a teenager who sold clothes on Depop said a buyer offered £30 if she included her underwear. Ofcom found that 15% of children aged eight to 14 use Vinted monthly. Vinted requires users to be 18, while Depop allows accounts from age 13, though payment services have higher age limits; ministers are considering age checks and other restrictions.