The Legal Challenges of Deepfake Technology and the Protection of Image Rights in the European Union

Abstract

The emergence of deepfake technology in September 2017, by an account named “deepfakes” has raised significant concerns due to its potential to violate, among others, the image rights of individuals. This thesis comprehensively explores the intricate technical aspects of deepfakes, tracing their historical evolution and diverse applications, and delves into their interference with protecting image rights in the European Union (EU). Additionally, the thesis explores significant legal cases that highlight the challenges and responses related to this phenomenon. In this context, the EU faces a substantial legislative challenge concerning image rights and their respective implications.