The UK government is considering banning Elon Musk’s X social media platform following the creation of sexualized deepfake images of children using its AI chatbot. Downing Street has stated that all options are being considered, including a possible boycott of X, with support for media regulator Ofcom to take necessary actions.
Ofcom has expressed serious concerns about the AI tool, Grok, developed by xAI, which has been used to generate inappropriate images on the platform. The Prime Minister’s office condemned the use of Grok, emphasizing the need to address the dissemination of demeaning deepfake content urgently.
Ministers are exploring potential measures, including fines and access restrictions, to combat such violations. The government has not ruled out discontinuing the use of the app, similar to the ban on TikTok on government devices. Tech Secretary Liz Kendall has instructed Musk’s company to address the issue promptly, with full backing for Ofcom to enforce actions against X and xAI.
Kendall emphasized the UK’s zero-tolerance policy towards offensive online content and called for collective efforts to eradicate such material. Grok’s X account acknowledged the lapses in security measures and pledged to enhance safeguards to prevent harmful content, ensuring compliance with regulations for a safer online environment.
Musk announced the release of a new version of Grok with unspecified updates, urging users to update their app. The government and regulatory bodies are closely monitoring the situation to safeguard online users from illicit content.