Police are investigating reports of digitally altered explicit images featuring the faces of female students that have been shared online. Families expressed their frustration at a local high school for not addressing the issue, prompting several to visit the Eastwood Police Station on Wednesday evening.

Authorities confirmed that an investigation is underway. A spokesperson for the Ryde Police Area Command stated, "Officers attached to Ryde Police Area Command have commenced an investigation. Inquiries are ongoing and there is no further information available at this time."

The situation escalated after a male student, who received the images, reported the matter to his school. Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos stated that the incident would be discussed with the Department of Education secretary and at the national education ministers meeting on Friday.

"These are deeply concerning reports that I have been briefed on," Houssos said. "This isn't a problem that we're just facing in New South Wales; this is nationwide, but it's appropriate for police to be investigating this matter." She emphasized that schools reflect broader societal issues, noting, "This is a challenge that we're facing across the nation, and I think it's important that we consider that specifically in our schools."

Houssos also mentioned that support would be provided at the affected school, stating, "These are really concerning allegations, and we'll make sure we get to the bottom of it."

In response to the growing issue of deepfake technology, New South Wales recently strengthened its laws. Legislation passed last month prohibits the use of artificial intelligence to create intimate images of identifiable individuals without their consent. Under the updated Crimes Act 1900, producing sexually explicit deepfakes can result in a penalty of up to three years in prison.

The issue has gained attention as parents confront the rise of fake explicit images being used by teenagers against their female peers. Attorney-General Michael Daley previously remarked that the laws aim to address emerging technology and combat sexual exploitation. He noted, "These aren't just creating cartoons. They are really harmful ways of acting that often happen to young people at schools."

Daley also highlighted the severe consequences, stating, "We've had young people, women who've committed suicide because of this. So the government takes this very, very seriously."

Additionally, Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells indicated last month that the government plans to take action against AI technologies, including "nudify" apps, which have contributed to this troubling trend.