The probe follows reports that Grok AI was used to generate and share undressed images of people, which could constitute intimate image abuse or pornography, as well as sexualized depictions of children, which may amount to child sexual abuse material. “There have been deeply concerning reports of the Grok AI chatbot account on X being used to create and share such content,” Ofcom said in a statement.
X responded by pointing to previous statements asserting that the platform takes action against illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, by removing it, permanently suspending accounts, and working with local authorities as needed. The company emphasized that “anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content.”
The investigation comes amid mounting political pressure. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the images produced by Grok as “disgusting” and “unlawful,” saying X must “get a grip” on the chatbot. Business Secretary Peter Kyle acknowledged that banning the platform in the UK was possible but clarified that the authority to act rests with Ofcom. Minister Liz Kendall urged that the investigation be completed swiftly.
Under UK law, creating or sharing non-consensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material—including AI-generated sexual content—is illegal. Platforms are also required to prevent users from encountering illegal content and to remove it once detected.
X has faced similar criticism internationally, with French authorities reporting the platform to prosecutors and regulators over content they described as “manifestly illegal,” and Indian regulators seeking explanations. X said it now limits requests to undress people in images to paying users only.
Ofcom’s investigation will examine whether X adequately assessed the risk that UK users—including children—might be exposed to illegal content. In serious cases of non-compliance, the regulator can ask a court to require payment providers or advertisers to withdraw services from the platform or even block access to it in Britain.