In the age of artificial intelligence and digital manipulation, the rise of “nudify” apps has introduced a troubling trend. These apps claim to "undress" people in photos using artificial intelligence, often targeting unsuspecting individuals and promoting exploitative behavior. While some might see them as a joke or a harmless prank, the reality is much darker. These apps contribute to cyberbullying, privacy violations, and even legal consequences. It is important for parents to be aware of these apps and share the dangers of them with their teens.

Educators and parents: Guide your students' reflection and discussion with this student worksheet. (Log in to your Google account and select File-->Make a Copy)

What are Nudify Apps?

• Nudify apps use AI technology to alter images, often making people in the images appear nude or explicit without the individual’s consent
• Many nudify apps can be found online or in unofficial app stores, making it easy for teens to access them, even if banned from major platforms
• The use of these apps can lead to cyberbullying, invasion of privacy, emotional distress, and even legal consequences for creating or sharing manipulated images

Nudify Apps Parents Should Know About

At SmartSocial we do not encourage usage of Nudify apps. All of these apps are categorized as RED ZONE apps. Some of these apps can be downloaded in the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store but many of them are downloaded directly from the developer's website.

DeepNude

Originally launched in 2019, DeepNude used artificial intelligence to remove clothing from photos. It was banned shortly after due to ethical concerns, but copycat versions still circulate online

• DeepNude uses AI tools to create non-consensual explicit images
• Can be used for cyberbullying and to harm someone’s reputation
• Teens using it could face legal repercussions
• Spreads the false idea that altering someone’s image without permission is acceptable

Nufa AI

• Nufa AI is marketed as an “artistic” photo editing app, Nufa AI allows users to manipulate images to appear undressed
• It is easy for teens to misuse on classmates, celebrities, or social media influencers
• Can lead to emotional distress, body shaming, and cyber harassment
• Lacks content moderation, making it easy for harmful images to spread
• Some versions collect user data without consent, creating security risks

Undress AI

• This app claims to “restore” images using AI, but it is widely misused to create fake explicit content
• Undress AI promotes non-consensual image manipulation
• Can be used for blackmail, revenge porn, and online extortion
• Teens could unknowingly become both victims and perpetrators of digital abuse
• Possession or distribution of explicit AI-generated content could have legal consequences

X-Ray Scanner Prank

• Marketed as a joke app, X-Ray Scanner Prank claims to “scan” people’s clothes in photos. While some versions are fake, others have more serious risks
• Some versions secretly collect user data and private images
• The app encourages teens to invade others’ privacy
• Can give false confidence that AI can "expose" people, leading to inappropriate behavior
• Some variations contain malware that steals sensitive data from phones

Nudify Me

• Nudify Me claims to be for “photo editing” but is often used to create manipulated explicit images
• They target younger audiences by making explicit content seem like a game
• Lacks ethical guidelines, allowing users to share manipulated images easily
• Normalizes the objectification of others
• Could result in social, emotional, and legal consequences for teens who use it

Nudify apps in the news

“Even if the images look fake, deepfake abuse can cause significant harm. It can damage a person’s reputation and career prospects. It can have detrimental mental and physical health effects, including social isolation, self-harm and a loss of trust in others.” Source: The Conversation

“With the accessibility, capability and proliferation of open-source AI apps, often nudify apps or undressing apps, or apps that blatantly say you just choose the age of a child you want, and a body type … within seconds, will create an image for you.

"We've given these incredibly powerful tools to kids on their smartphones, where they're harvesting images of their classmates on social media.” Source: NBC.net

Why do students want to use nudify apps?

• Teens may be drawn to these apps out of curiosity or because friends are using them as a prank or challenge. The desire to fit in or impress peers can push them to experiment with AI-generated image manipulation
• Many students may not realize the serious consequences of using nudify apps. They might believe it's just a joke without understanding how these images can harm others and themselves
• With AI technology becoming more mainstream, some teens may use these apps to create or edit images for social media, unaware of how these manipulations can be misused or permanently damage reputations

Why should parents and educators care?

• Repeated exposure to explicit AI-generated images can contribute to unhealthy habits, desensitization, and potential addiction to pornography
• Nudify apps can be used to create harmful, non-consensual images, leading to bullying and emotional distress
• Teens may face serious legal consequences for creating or sharing explicit AI-generated content
• Many apps collect data or distribute manipulated images, putting teens at risk online

What can parents and educators do?

• Talk to teens about the risks of AI-generated explicit content and why it’s harmful
• Keep an eye on the apps your teen is using and research any suspicious downloads
• Emphasize the importance of respecting others' privacy and consent online
• Make sure teens understand the potential legal and social consequences of using these apps
• If your child or student encounters inappropriate image manipulation, report it to the platform or authorities

More resources for parents, students, & educators

AI Chatbots: What Parents Need to Know

Parental Controls on Student Devices: What Parents & Educators Need to Know in 2025

Conclusion

The impact of nudify apps can be serious and long-lasting. From cyberbullying and privacy violations to legal trouble and unhealthy online habits, these apps pose real dangers for teens. Parents, educators, and students should stay informed, set clear boundaries, and promote responsible digital behavior. By fostering open conversations and teaching respect for privacy and consent, we can help prevent the misuse of AI technology and create a safer online environment for everyone.