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Fernandes’ Deepfake Allegations Against Ulmen Trigger Spanish Probe and Renewed Push for Tougher Laws

A televised appeal has turned the case into a flashpoint over how Germany confronts AI‑enabled sexual abuse.

Overview

  • Palma de Mallorca’s district court confirmed that preliminary investigations tied to Fernandes’ December 2025 complaint are under way and still at a very early stage.
  • Christian Ulmen, via media lawyer Christian Schertz, contests the reporting on the allegations and has announced press‑legal action against Der Spiegel; the presumption of innocence applies.
  • Industry responses escalated as Joyn removed the series Jerks from its platform and advertiser Shop Apotheke paused campaigns featuring the former couple, while public figures voiced support for Fernandes.
  • Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig said she will present a digital‑violence law this spring, including plans to criminalize creating and distributing pornographic deepfakes and to strengthen victim remedies such as account blocks and improved disclosure rights.
  • In an ARD Tagesthemen interview, Fernandes called Germany “an absolute Täterparadies” and urged stronger protections, and she later promoted a Berlin demonstration on Sunday, with 500 participants registered with police.