UK Investigates Elon Musk's Grok Over "Concerning" Deepfakes

Ofcom Launches Formal Investigation

The UK's media regulator, Ofcom, has initiated a formal investigation into Elon Musk's platform, X, due to the use of the AI chatbot Grok to generate sexualized deepfake images. Ofcom described the reports as "concerning," warning that the generation of deepfake nudes could constitute "abuse of intimate images or pornography," and that "sexualized images of children" could be regarded as "child sexual abuse material."

Reactions from British Officials

Following comments from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who condemned the images produced by Grok as "disgusting" and "illegal," Ofcom is under pressure to take action. The investigation will assess whether X has "failed to meet legal obligations," initiated after the company responded to a previous request from the regulator explaining the steps taken to protect users in the UK.

Strict Rules on Online Content

According to the UK's Online Safety Act, which came into effect in July, online platforms hosting potentially harmful content are mandated to implement strict age verification checks through tools such as facial recognition or credit card verification. The creation or distribution of non-consensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material is illegal, including sexual deepfakes created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Possible Ban on Grok

Ofcom holds the power to impose fines of 10% of global revenues for rule violations. When asked whether X could be banned, Secretary of State for Business Peter Kyle responded: "Yes, of course," adding that the decision rests with Ofcom. Grok has attempted to mitigate international criticism with a new monetization policy, announcing on X that the tool is now "limited to paying subscribers." Starmer condemned this measure as an affront to victims and "not a solution."

Musk's Response

Musk accused the British government of fascism and trying to restrict freedom of speech. Grok, developed by Musk's company xAI, released an advanced image generation feature in July of last year, but its use for creating deepfake nudes has surged significantly in recent weeks, provoking global condemnation.