The UK government has welcomed a decision by Elon Musk’s X to block its AI tool Grok from creating sexualised images of real people. The move comes after weeks of criticism over the tool being used to generate nonconsensual intimate images of women and children.
X announced it would “geoblock” the ability to generate images of real people in bikinis, underwear and similar attire in countries where it is illegal, including the UK. The company said it has “zero tolerance” for child sexual exploitation and nonconsensual nudity.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer had previously called the situation “horrific” and “disgusting”. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the change was welcome but that Ofcom’s investigation into the platform should “robustly establish the facts”.
Ofcom launched a formal investigation on Monday after reports that Grok was used to create and share illegal intimate images and child sexual abuse material on X. A spokesperson said the development was welcome but the investigation remains ongoing.
Musk said he was not aware of any naked underage images generated by Grok, and that the tool complies with local laws. X said it takes action against violative content and reports accounts seeking child sexual exploitation to law enforcement.
