UK might prohibit Elon Musk’s X due to government investigation into Grok AI misuse

UK Government Intensifies Action Against AI-Driven Sexual Exploitation

On Monday, the UK government escalated its efforts to combat AI-related sexual abuse, announcing that a ban on Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, is under consideration.

This significant move follows the commencement of a formal investigation by Ofcom, the British communications regulator, to determine if X has violated its legal obligations under the Online Safety Act. Reports indicated that the platform’s AI chatbot, Grok, was being utilized to create and distribute sexual deepfake images of women and children.

Grok was introduced in 2023, but the capability for generating images, known as Grok Imagine, was added in 2025, including a specialized mode for adult-themed content.

Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, expressed her concerns, labeling it “deeply worrying” that AI tools are being exploited to produce sexually explicit and non-consensual images. She also emphasized that social media firms must be held accountable for their actions—or lack thereof.

Kendall remarked, “I welcome Ofcom’s urgent move to launch a formal investigation today,” and stressed the need for swift action to ensure accountability for victims and the public.

During another statement, she pointed out that Grok’s AI tools contributed to the creation of degrading and non-consensual intimate images. “No woman or child should live in fear of having their image manipulated,” she asserted, condemning the content circulating on X as “vile” and illegal under UK law.

Kendall clarified that sharing or threatening to share deepfake intimate images without consent is a criminal act in the UK.

Ofcom previously contacted Company X on January 5, requesting an explanation of the measures in place to safeguard UK users, pressing for a response by January 9. While xAI, Musk’s other venture, did respond, Ofcom decided to proceed with a formal investigation after evaluating the evidence available.

Ofcom stated that reports about Grok’s use for creating illegal intimate images are “deeply concerning” and that it will not hesitate to act where companies are failing in their responsibilities, especially considering any potential harm to children.

In response to escalating criticism, Grok acknowledged a “failed security measure” regarding an incident where it generated an image depicting two girls in sexual attire, apologizing for the harm it caused. The platform has since begun limiting some features to paid users to mitigate abuse.

Musk, in a recent comment, labeled the UK government’s actions as “fascism,” claiming that the country arrests more individuals over social media posts than anywhere else. Alongside Ofcom’s investigation, upcoming legislation aimed at criminalizing the AI creation of non-consensual intimate images will take effect this week.

Kendall emphasized that the responsibility lies not just with individuals but also with platforms like X. She expressed readiness to take further action if necessary.

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office indicated that the government’s involvement with X is “under consideration,” keeping all options open. Reports also surfaced regarding Malaysia and Indonesia being the first nations to block Grok.