Deepfake Developer: 'Every Woman Should Fear Cameras'

A Brisbane District Court trial has begun for Antonio Rotondo, a 56-year-old software developer accused of creating and distributing "deepfake" nude or sexualised images of schoolgirls and other women. Rotondo pleaded not guilty to 17 charges, including stalking and distributing intimate images, as well as child exploitation material.

During police questioning, Rotondo allegedly stated that deepfake technology is unstoppable, asserting that "every woman on Earth should live in fear" of cameras and social media. He claimed nude images of everyone would eventually appear online.

The prosecution detailed how Rotondo allegedly collected public images from female staff and students of a Queensland school, along with models, and used an AI program to digitally remove clothing or add revealing lingerie.

These modified images were allegedly emailed to school administrators and a fashion event organisers on September 10, 2023. One senior staff member was reportedly “very distressed” by the images depicting her. Alleged victims are expected to testify about their horror and concerns for online safety and reputation.

Rotondo, who had a software development background, reportedly described the process to police as “fun to just press a button and remove their clothes,” comparing it to “X-ray vision glasses.” He claimed it was for “fun” and that he was “that type of person” who “really don’t care.” Most alleged victims had not seen the images, and the prosecution is not claiming the images were sent for sexual gratification.

Rotondo also hosted some created images on a public website. He denied to police knowing a 13-year-old girl in one alleged image was underage, stating "It's impossible to know." The trial continues.