Elon Musk has lashed out at the UK government, accusing it of trying to censor free speech after ministers threatened to ban X. The threat follows reports that X’s Grok AI was used to create non-consensual sexual images of women and children. Musk appeared unconcerned by the regulatory pressure, pointing out that Grok had become the number one app on the UK App Store in the wake of the scandal.
The abuse facilitated by Grok has been graphic and disturbing. The AI was used to digitally strip women and girls in photos, replacing their clothes with swimwear or placing them in abusive situations. The generation of images showing violence and bondage has drawn widespread condemnation. Experts have warned that the tool’s ability to alter images of minors constitutes the creation of child sexual abuse material.
Liz Kendall, the UK Technology Secretary, stated that the government is “looking seriously” at blocking X if the platform fails to address the issue. She cited the Online Safety Act and warned that Ofcom is prepared to take action within days. Kendall emphasized that the government would fully back the regulator in using its powers to protect the public.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined the criticism, calling the situation “abhorrent” and a failure of corporate responsibility. While some UK politicians have defended Musk, the general consensus is that the platform has failed to protect its users. The safety of women and children is the primary concern for lawmakers.
X has taken some steps to limit the damage, such as restricting image generation for free users. However, paid subscribers can still access the tool, and other “nudification” apps remain available. Campaigners are calling for urgent legislation to ban these tools and to hold tech companies accountable for facilitating their use.
