The UK’s media regulator Ofcom has urgently contacted xAI following allegations that Grok AI generates sexualised images of children and creates non-consensual nude images of women. A regulator spokesperson confirmed the investigation into reports that Grok produces undressed depictions of real people without authorization.
Multiple instances documented on X show users requesting the chatbot to modify photographs, placing women in bikinis and sexual scenarios without permission. The BBC obtained evidence of this misuse occurring across the platform. X issued a warning Sunday instructing users not to leverage Grok for creating illegal material, including child sexual abuse content.
Elon Musk stated that individuals requesting illegal content generation would face identical legal consequences to uploaders themselves. XAI’s policies explicitly prohibit depicting individuals pornographically, yet users have circumvented these restrictions to non-consensually manipulate images. The European Commission announced Monday it was investigating the matter seriously, with authorities in France, Malaysia, and India reportedly examining the situation.
Journalist Samantha Smith discovered Grok created images depicting her in swimwear without consent. She described the experience as dehumanising and violating, comparing it to actual nude photograph distribution. The Internet Watch Foundation received public reports about Grok-generated imagery on X, though no content meeting UK legal thresholds for child sexual abuse material was identified.
UK legislation defines creating and sharing intimate or explicit AI-generated images without consent as illegal under the Online Safety Act. Technology companies must implement measures preventing user exposure to such content and remove it promptly upon discovery. The European Commission spokesperson characterised the outputs as illegal and unacceptable, noting X previously received a €120 million fine for Digital Services Act violations. The Home Office announced forthcoming legislation criminalising nudification tool suppliers with prison sentences and substantial penalties.
