Downing Street has rejected X, owned by Elon Musk, for its handling of the recent scandal involving sexual images, calling it disrespectful to victims of misogyny and sexual violence. X’s social media platform announced that its AI chatbot Grok would offer a “premium service” for creating deepfake content. The government criticized this move, stating it is insufficient and urged X to take more decisive actions, warning Musk that all options are being considered to address the disturbing situation.
Although there have been calls to boycott the platform, Downing Street has not committed to ceasing its use. Grok faced backlash for enabling the generation of fake nude images of individuals, including minors, without consent. A spokesperson for Keir Starmer criticized X for turning an AI feature that produces unlawful images into a premium service, emphasizing that it undermines the seriousness of the issue and the need for prompt action.
The spokesperson underscored the Prime Minister’s clear message that X must act promptly to address the problem. Comparing the situation to a hypothetical scenario of unlawful images displayed in public, the spokesperson emphasized the urgency of preventing the creation of illegal and reprehensible content on Grok.
Following the Prime Minister’s condemnation of X’s behavior, the Labour Party is contemplating discontinuing its use of the platform. Party chairwoman Anna Turley highlighted the importance of ensuring a safe environment and stressed that X must address the issue immediately. The government is collaborating with Ofcom to address the misuse of AI technology, particularly concerning the creation of inappropriate content on Grok.
Ofcom recently contacted Musk’s X and xAI regarding concerns about sexualized images of children on Grok, expressing the need for urgent action. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall instructed Musk’s social media company to address the issue promptly and endorsed Ofcom’s authority to enforce necessary measures against X or xAI. Kendall emphasized the UK’s zero tolerance for offensive material online and called for collective efforts to eradicate it.
X users reportedly prompted Grok to generate images of children in suggestive attire, leading to concerns about child sexual abuse material. Grok acknowledged lapses in its safeguards and pledged to rectify them promptly, emphasizing its commitment to compliance with regulations and creating a safer online environment.
In response to criticisms, Grok’s X account assured that it is enhancing safeguards to prevent harmful content, including better filtering of inappropriate prompts. The platform reiterated its dedication to regulatory compliance and fostering a secure online space.