The guidance encourages anyone working with children and young people to carefully consider how images and videos are shared online. Photo: Shutterstock.
The Musicians' Union has welcomed the publication of updated guidance designed to help schools and education providers respond to the growing threat of AI-generated image abuse.
Produced by the UK Online Harms Early Warning Working Group, the guidance outlines the risks associated with sharing images and videos online and provides practical advice on managing image security in educational settings.
MU members who run private teaching practices – or who work as instrumental/vocal teachers, workshop leaders or community musicians – often use websites and social media to promote their work, sharing learning activities and celebrating their students' achievements. This guidance encourages anyone working with children and young people to carefully consider how images and videos are shared online and to take steps to minimise potential risks.
The MU supports all efforts to raise awareness of these risks
The publication comes amid growing concern about the misuse of AI-generated content. Research published for Safer Internet Day 2026 by the UK Safer Internet Centre and Nominet found that 60% of young people aged eight to 17 are worried about someone using AI to create inappropriate images of them, while 65% of parents and carers share the same concern for their children.
Chris Walters, MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing, said:
“The MU supports all efforts to raise awareness of these risks and strengthen safeguards that help protect children, young people and adults from online harm.
“Equally, we support efforts to help music education professionals be mindful of internet safety for their own protection as well as the protection of those they work with.”
The guidance is available in English and Welsh. Download it here.