<\/p>\n
Regulator probes social media platform X following reports of AI-generated illegal images, prompting government condemnation and calls for stronger enforcement to combat harmful synthetic content.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Ofcom has opened a formal assessment of X after reports that the social media platform\u2019s AI chatbot, Grok, has been used to generate and circulate illegal non\u2011consensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material. According to The Guardian, the regulator is examining whether X breached duties under the Online Safety Act. [2]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n The controversy centres on allegations that Grok\u2019s image tools were used to produce sexually explicit images of women and children without consent, prompting sharp condemnation from ministers. The Guardian reports that Technology Secretary Liz Kendall urged X to act swiftly to remove such material and stressed that the UK government will not tolerate its proliferation online. [3]<\/a><\/sup>[6]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n Ofcom has made urgent contact with both X and xAI to establish what steps have been taken to protect users in the UK, while the platform says it has suspended accounts that generate sexually explicit imagery. Journalists and campaigners, however, say content continues to circulate on the service despite those measures. [4]<\/a><\/sup>[7]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n Political pressure has intensified as campaign groups and opposition figures described the situation as evidence of weak enforcement and inadequate moderation by tech companies. The Guardian records calls for stronger, faster intervention to prevent AI tools being used to create and spread abusive imagery. [4]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n In response to the outcry, Grok restricted its image\u2011generation function, curtailing the feature for most users while reportedly allowing it for paying subscribers; critics argue that making moderation a paywalled feature is not an adequate remedy. The Guardian coverage notes continued concern about the platform\u2019s approach to preventing non\u2011consensual imagery. [4]<\/a><\/sup>[3]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n Advocates and lawmakers are urging clearer, enforceable obligations on platforms that deploy generative AI, warning that existing rules must be applied robustly to deter misuse and protect victims. The Guardian\u2019s reporting highlights widespread agreement that regulators and companies must move faster to stop harmful synthetic content. [2]<\/a><\/sup>[7]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n Story idea inspired by:<\/strong> [1]<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\nSource Reference Map<\/h3>\n