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Ofcom launches investigation into X's AI chatbot
The UK communications regulator has opened a formal inquiry into Elon Musk's platform X over allegations its AI tool, Grok, is being used to produce and distribute sexually explicit images without consent. Concerns include the creation of undressed images of adults and sexualised depictions of children.
Potential penalties and platform response
If X is found to have violated UK law, Ofcom could impose fines of up to 10% of the company's global revenue or £18 million-whichever is higher. The regulator also has the authority to seek a court order blocking access to X in the UK if the platform fails to comply.
X responded to inquiries by directing attention to a statement from its Safety account earlier this month, which warned that users generating illegal content via Grok would face the same consequences as those uploading such material directly.
"Anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content."
X Safety Account
Political and public reaction
Elon Musk criticised the investigation, suggesting the UK government was seeking an excuse for censorship. Meanwhile, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall welcomed the probe, emphasising the need for swift action. "The public-and most importantly, the victims-will not accept any delay," she stated.
Former shadow technology secretary Peter Kyle described the situation as "appalling," citing a recent meeting with a Jewish woman whose image in a bikini was digitally altered and placed outside Auschwitz. "It made me feel sick to my stomach," he said.
Dr Daisy Dixon, who previously spoke to the BBC about feeling "humiliated" after her likeness was used in non-consensual images, called the investigation a necessary step. "For Musk and others to call this an excuse for censorship deflects from the real issue-systematic violence against women and girls," she said.
Scope of the investigation
Ofcom's inquiry will focus on whether X acted promptly to remove illegal content once aware of it and whether it implemented adequate measures to prevent UK users from accessing such material. The regulator will also assess whether the platform employed robust age-verification systems to shield children from pornographic imagery.
An Ofcom spokesperson stated the investigation was a "matter of the highest priority," adding, "Platforms must protect people in the UK from content that's illegal in the UK."
Global context and legal perspectives
The probe follows international backlash against Grok's image-generation feature, with Malaysia and Indonesia temporarily restricting access to the tool over the weekend. Legal experts note the investigation's timeline remains uncertain, though Ofcom has the discretion to act swiftly if necessary.
Professor Lorna Woods of Essex University suggested the regulator could seek a business disruption order to block X immediately in "rare circumstances," though such measures are typically a last resort. Durham University's Professor Clare McGlynn argued the focus should be on tangible action rather than debates over potential bans. "Women and girls need changes on the ground," she said, "so Grok stops producing illegal images and victims can secure removal of non-consensual content."
