The UK communications regulator, Ofcom, has initiated a formal investigation into Elon Musk's social media platform X. This decisive action follows widespread reports that the platform's integrated artificial intelligence tool, Grok, was exploited to generate sexualised and 'undressed' images of individuals without their consent.
Deeply Concerning Reports Prompt Urgent Action
Ofcom stated it was responding to "deeply concerning" reports about the AI-generated imagery. The regulator confirmed it will scrutinise whether X has fulfilled its legal duties under the Online Safety Act to protect UK users from illegal content. The investigation, launched on Monday 12 January 2026, was prompted by an urgent review of evidence, with the regulator having first made contact with X on 5 January.
In a stark revelation, the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) verified that the tool had been used to produce criminal imagery depicting children aged between 11 and 13. Ofcom's statement clarified the focus of the probe: "There have been deeply concerning reports of the Grok AI chatbot account on X being used to create and share undressed images of people – which may amount to intimate image abuse or pornography – and sexualised images of children that may amount to child sexual abuse material."
Government Backs Ofcom With Threat of Ban
The government has thrown its weight behind the regulator. The Prime Minister has repeatedly affirmed that Ofcom, which holds the power to effectively ban X in the UK, has the government's "full support to take action". Technology Secretary Liz Kendall welcomed the investigation, stressing the need for swift conclusions. "The public – and most importantly the victims – will not accept any delay," she stated, adding she would update Parliament on the government's response.
Downing Street indicated that the government's own presence on X is "under review", with all options on the table. Trade Secretary Peter Kyle criticised X for not doing enough to keep users safe, while Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy raised the issue directly with US Vice President JD Vance, who reportedly agreed the situation was "entirely unacceptable".
Political Divisions and Musk's Response
The crisis has exposed political divisions. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch argued that banning X is the "wrong answer", suggesting the Labour government was proposing random policies as a distraction. Conversely, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage expressed fears the situation could lead to further suppression of free speech, while condemning the specific Grok feature.
In response to ministerial threats, Elon Musk accused the UK government of being "fascist" and attempting to curb free speech. On his platform, he claimed "Real fascism is arresting thousands of people for social media posts," reacting to a post about UK social media arrests.
The formal investigation now places X under intense scrutiny. Ofcom's powers under the Online Safety Act are considerable, encompassing substantial fines and the potential to block the platform's access in the UK, setting the stage for a major clash between the regulator and one of the world's most prominent tech platforms.
