Elon Musk is facing a critical deadline in the UK, with ministers warning that action against his platform X could be taken within “days.” The threat follows the discovery that the Grok AI tool was being used to create non-consensual sexual images of women and children. Musk has hit back, claiming the government’s true motive is to “suppress free speech,” while simultaneously highlighting the app’s surge in popularity.
The content generated by Grok has been shocking in its graphic nature. The AI allowed users to manipulate photos of unsuspecting victims, depicting them in micro-bikinis or in scenes of torture and bondage. The inclusion of minors in these generated images has led experts to warn that the platform is facilitating the creation of child sexual abuse material, a criminal offense.
Liz Kendall, the UK Technology Secretary, stated that the government is “looking seriously” at banning X under the Online Safety Act. She urged the platform to “get a grip” on the situation, warning that Ofcom has the full backing of the state to enforce a block if the law is not followed. The urgency of her remarks suggests that the window for negotiation is closing.
The scandal has drawn condemnation from global leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who labeled the use of AI for such purposes as “abhorrent.” He argued that global citizens deserve better protection from social media exploitation. In the UK, however, the issue has been politicized, with figures like Liz Truss attacking the government’s stance as authoritarian.
X has responded by restricting image generation for free users, but the tool remains accessible to paid subscribers. The incident has also shed light on the proliferation of other “nudification” apps, leading to calls for a comprehensive ban. Campaigners are urging the government to prioritize the safety of women and children over the commercial interests of tech companies.