UK Cracks Down on Grok AI: X Could Lose Right to Self-Regulate Over Deepfakes
UK Government Moves Against AI-Generated Deepfakes
The UK is taking swift action against non-consensual intimate images created by AI, following growing concerns over Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot on X.
Speaking to Labour MPs, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned that X could lose the right to self-regulate if it fails to control Grok’s misuse.
“If X cannot control Grok, we will,” Starmer said, signaling the government’s readiness to intervene quickly.
New Laws to Criminalise AI Nudification Tools
The government plans to bring into force legislation making it illegal to create or supply tools used to make intimate images without consent. This would criminalise AI features designed to digitally undress or sexualize people.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said AI-generated images of women and children in compromising situations are “weapons of abuse” and not harmless fun. She added that the sharing or creation of such content is already a criminal offence under the Online Safety Act.
“This content is vile and illegal. Anyone creating or requesting it should expect to face the full extent of the law,” Kendall said.
The law will also make it a priority offence under the Online Safety Act, ensuring regulators like Ofcom can act quickly.
Ofcom Launches Investigation into X and Grok AI
Following widespread reports, Ofcom has launched an investigation into X to determine whether it failed to remove illegal AI-generated content promptly.
If X is found in violation, the regulator can impose a fine of up to 10% of its global revenue or £18 million, whichever is greater. Ofcom could even seek a court order to block access to X in the UK.
An Ofcom spokesperson confirmed that the investigation is being treated as a high priority, though no timeline has been announced.
Growing Global Backlash Against Grok
The controversy over Grok isn’t limited to the UK. Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia temporarily blocked access to the AI tool over the weekend due to similar concerns.
Despite the criticism, Elon Musk has defended Grok, claiming the UK government is using it as “any excuse for censorship.”
Kendall rejected this notion, stating, “This is not about restricting freedom of speech. It is about tackling violence against women and girls.”
What This Means for Users and Platforms
Legal experts warn that both individual users and platforms will be held accountable. Platforms like X are expected to follow Ofcom’s safety guidance to protect women and girls from harm.
Jamie Hurworth, a legal expert, said, “It’s crucial that every link—from creators to platforms—is held responsible. Otherwise, the law will have little effect.”
Users who create or request non-consensual AI images could face criminal prosecution, while companies that supply such tools may also be targeted under new legislation.
UK Takes Aim at AI Nudification Apps
Kendall confirmed that the government will extend existing measures, including the Crime and Policing Bill, to criminalise “nudification” apps. These apps allow people to digitally remove clothing from images without consent, often for malicious purposes.
“This is about targeting the problem at its source,” Kendall said. Platforms failing to comply with legal obligations could face further sanctions.
Political Response and Concerns Over Free Speech
Shadow Technology Secretary Julia Lopez welcomed the investigation but cautioned against heavy-handed measures, warning that banning X could set a serious precedent.
“It is an extraordinarily serious move against a platform that can be used for good, including uncovering scandals and supporting democratic debate,” Lopez said.
What Comes Next for X and Grok AI
The UK government is signaling a zero-tolerance approach toward AI-generated sexualized images, and platforms like X may face rapid fines or access restrictions if they fail to comply.
With new laws coming into effect this week, the focus is on prevention, accountability, and protecting vulnerable users from digital abuse.