Apple and Google have been ordered to remove apps that use artificial intelligence (AI) to 'nudify' or generate non-consensual nude images of people. The move comes after San Francisco city attorney David Chiu sent cease-and-desist letters demanding the removal of 13 face-swapping apps from their respective app stores.

The tech giants have previously removed dozens of such apps, but the latest action highlights ongoing concerns over harmful technology that can be used for sexual abuse. Researchers have found numerous apps in both Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store allowing users to create sexual images using AI techniques.

“Generating non-consensual intimate images is illegal, harmful, and completely unacceptable,” said Chiu. The city attorney cited California laws prohibiting services that create deepfake pornography, adding that the tech companies should improve their moderation processes to prevent such apps from appearing in their stores.

The actions come as a highly lucrative industry of AI-generated 'nudification' technology has emerged online. Apps, websites and bots enable users to upload pictures, remove clothing digitally or place individuals into graphic sexual scenarios with just a few clicks. The technology’s ease of use has led to the creation of millions of such images in recent years.