Take it Down tool and Act

As technology evolves, so do the challenges young people face online. Two important initiatives are working to address the growing issue of non-consensual intimate images—including both real and AI-generated content. One is an existing resource that is already helping families, and the other is a proposed law aimed at strengthening protections.

1. The ‘Take It Down’ Website – A Tool for Content Removal

TakeItDown.NCMEC.org is a free and anonymous service from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). It helps young people under 18 (and those who were under 18 when the content was created) request the removal of nude, partially nude, or sexually explicit images of themselves from participating websites and platforms.

This tool uses digital fingerprinting (called hashing) to track and remove the identified content across multiple platforms. I’ve been sharing this resource in my trainings for over a year because it’s a critical tool for youth, families, and professionals who support them.

2. The ‘Take It Down’ Act – A Proposed Law for Accountability

A new piece of legislation called the ‘Take It Down’ Act has been introduced in Congress. While the NCMEC website focuses on removal, this proposed law would make it a crime to distribute non-consensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes. It would also require online platforms to remove reported content within 48 hours, helping prevent further harm.

Why This Matters for Youth

Both the NCMEC website and the proposed Act are designed to help combat the growing problem of explicit images being shared without consent—whether real or artificially created.

• The website is already available to help teens and young adults remove harmful content.
• The law, if passed, would create consequences for those who share such images and require platforms to act quickly when victims seek help.

How You Can Help

• Share the Take It Down website with families and young people who may need it.
• Stay informed about online safety issues affecting youth.
• Continue creating safe spaces where young people feel comfortable talking about their online experiences.

At Shape the Sky, we are committed to equipping adults with tools and knowledge to help young people navigate the digital world safely. Thank you for being part of this effort.

Stay informed,
Ryan