The New Frontier of Digital Sexual Exploitation: The Role of AI in Child Sex Abuse

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world—but not always for the better. In this urgent episode of Lean To the Left, we explore how AI is fueling a disturbing rise in digital sexual exploitation, including the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent. He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight. We discuss: ✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation ✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors ✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough ✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention ✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world. Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com 👉 Subscribe for more conversations that shine a light on pressing social issues. 👉 Share this episode to raise awareness and spark action. Artificial intelligence is transforming our world—but not always for the better. In this urgent episode of Lean To the Left, we explore how AI is fueling a disturbing rise in digital sexual exploitation, including the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent. He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight. We discuss: ✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation ✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors ✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough ✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention ✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world. Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com 👉 Subscribe for more conversations that shine a light on pressing social issues. 👉 Share this episode to raise awareness and spark action. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:03 Roger Canaff's Journey and Motivation 02:24 AI and Sexual Exploitation 06:09 The Role of Social Media and Tech Companies 09:09 Legal and Legislative Efforts 12:12 Parental and Societal Responsibilities 13:33 Trauma Responses and Victim Support 18:45 Justice 3D and Training Initiatives 23:42 Roger Canaff's Books and Contact Information 25:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts