UK regulator launches probe into X over sexualised AI imagery

The UK has escalated its scrutiny of Elon Musk’s social media platform X after the AI-powered chatbot Grok was found generating sexualised deepfake images, including depictions of minors. The move comes amid mounting international concern over the technology and its potential misuse.

Ofcom steps in

On Monday, 13 January 2026, UK media regulator Ofcom announced a formal investigation into X, citing reports that Grok’s AI-generated content could constitute intimate image abuse or child sexual exploitation material.

“The creation of undressed images of real or fictional individuals, particularly children, is deeply concerning and may amount to criminal material,” the regulator said in a statement.

Ofcom had already contacted X on 5 January, requesting details about measures in place to protect UK users. The company responded within the requested timeframe, though details of its response have not been publicly shared. The investigation will determine whether X has failed to comply with legal obligations under the UK’s Online Safety Act.

Government backs the investigation

The probe has the backing of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose office said Ofcom “has our full support to take any action it sees fit.” A spokesperson added: “We won’t hesitate to go further to protect children online and strengthen the law as needed.”

Ofcom has the power to fine companies up to 10% of worldwide revenue for failing to meet safety requirements.

Grok responds, critics push back

In a bid to curb backlash, X announced that Grok would now only be available to paying subscribers, a move widely criticized by politicians and child protection advocates. Starmer called the change “not a solution” and an affront to victims of online abuse. Musk dismissed the criticism on X, claiming regulators were attempting to “suppress free speech.”

Global concerns intensify

The issue is not confined to the UK. Indonesia blocked all access to Grok on Saturday, followed by Malaysia on Sunday. Meanwhile, the European Commission has ordered X to retain all internal documents and data related to Grok until the end of 2026, as part of its ongoing digital oversight.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the stakes:

“We will not be outsourcing child protection and consent to Silicon Valley. If they don’t act, we will.”

The wider debate

Grok’s controversy underscores the challenges of regulating AI in real time. While AI-generated imagery offers new creative possibilities, the risk of non-consensual sexual content, particularly involving children, has triggered urgent global debate.

Online commentators on X and other platforms are split. Some defend Musk’s free speech stance, while many warn that the platform has created a toxic environment for vulnerable users.

As Ofcom moves forward with its investigation, the world will be watching whether X can balance innovation with safety, or if regulators will step in with heavy-handed measures to prevent harm.

{Source: The Citizen}

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