As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to push boundaries, some people are exploiting this tech for dark purposes.

Recently, the case of Sun Molin, who ran a community of over 27,000 members trading “secret” AI nude image creation methods, ended with a tough sentence, sending a strong warning about tech ethics.

From Tech Enthusiast to Criminal

Sun Molin worked for a company in Guizhou, China. Passionate about AI research, he started exploring digital art. But instead of creating valuable artworks, he was drawn to foreign social platforms with looser oversight, where in August 2023 he began his illegal venture.

To attract users, Sun created channels with fancy names like AI Painting, AI Side Hustle, and “AI Beauty.” But instead of teaching landscape painting or graphic design, he focused on a process called “AI Strip Guide.” This was basically a toolkit using AI to manipulate clothing areas in images, letting users turn normal photos into nudes with simple keywords and a click.

An Illegal Network and Big Profits

To maximize profits and avoid domestic authorities, Sun built a sophisticated membership hierarchy:

Public Channel: Used to promote and showcase “bait” content to attract tens of thousands of followers.

Paid Study Group: Here, Sun shared the “core tech” (how to use commands to create explicit images). Membership fees skyrocketed from 38 yuan (about 147,000 VND) to 168 yuan (about 651,000 VND) per person.

Order Group: A higher tier for skilled members, where Sun offered custom explicit image orders for members to profit together.

Statistics show Sun’s network had 27,000 members, with over 1,500 paying for AI strip training. He illegally earned more than 103,200 yuan (nearly 400 million VND).

When Secrets Meet the Law

The truth eventually came out. In June 2025, Mr. Wu from Beijing stumbled upon Sun’s group while researching AI. Realizing it was a criminal ring hiding behind tech to spread explicit content, he reported it to the Haidian Branch of Beijing Public Security.

On June 26, 2025, authorities arrested Sun Molin in Guiyang, Guizhou. Police seized videos and images confirmed as blatant pornography, seriously violating social ethics and internet regulations.

The case was quickly handed to the Haidian District Prosecutor’s Office. Investigators confirmed Sun used online platforms to create groups spreading illegal info and teaching criminal methods disguised as “tech tutorials.”

Justice Served for Tech Abuse

Sun Molin was charged with “Illegal Use of Information Networks” with “serious consequences.” Recently, Haidian District Court held a public trial. With solid evidence and the defendant’s admission, Sun was sentenced to:

• One year and six months in prison.
• A fine of 20,000 yuan (about 70 million VND).
• Confiscation of all illegal earnings over 100,000 yuan.

Sun’s case highlights the dark side of AI when misused by unethical people. Using AI to violate privacy, degrade women, and spread harmful content is not only illegal but a step backward for society.

Though 18 months isn’t a long sentence, it sends a clear message: there is no safe zone for cybercrime. Anyone exploiting technology for illegal gain will face legal consequences and community rejection. Internet users should stay alert and avoid supporting such crimes to protect themselves and society.

(Note: Names in this article have been changed.)