Elon Musk responds after Grok was used to create non-consensual deepfakes

UK officials say X’s AI assistant Grok was used to generate non-consensual intimate-image deepfakes; Ofcom has opened an expedited assessment and X limited some image features to paid users.

Elon Musk has responded after reports that Grok, the AI assistant on X, was used to generate non-consensual intimate-image deepfakes. The issue has prompted government and regulator attention in the UK because the images include sexualised portrayals and alleged images of minors. X has restricted some image-generation features to paying users while the platform faces criticism over how it has handled the problem. Officials and advocates have called for legal and regulatory steps to address non-consensual image creation. Key facts: - UK regulators reported urgent contact with X after users were able to use Grok to generate non-consensual intimate-image deepfakes, and Ofcom said it is carrying out an expedited assessment. - X limited certain image features to paid users and reiterated that it takes action against illegal content, including removal and account suspensions. - Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said manipulating images of women and children is unacceptable, reminded that the Online Safety Act gives Ofcom powers that could block services, and said the government plans legal changes including banning nudification apps and criminalising creation of intimate images without consent. - Elon Musk responded by framing critics as seeking reasons to censor the platform and reposted AI-generated images of public figures while the company faces regulatory scrutiny. Summary: The reports have led to regulatory scrutiny and public statements from UK ministers, while X has taken limited product steps and defended its enforcement processes. Ofcom's expedited assessment and pending changes in UK law are the primary next steps identified by officials.