Elon Musk has recently posted AI-generated images of Sir Keir Starmer in swimsuits on social media, raising concerns about the potential shutdown of a platform in the UK due to the proliferation of deepfake content.
In response to a user’s inquiry about the focus on X’s AI chatbot, Grok, Musk shared two AI-generated images of the Prime Minister, accompanied by a caption asserting the importance of protecting free speech rights. These actions come amidst reports of users utilizing Grok to create unauthorized sexualized images, prompting regulatory intervention from Ofcom.
Following Ofcom’s engagement with X over these issues, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall expressed support for potentially blocking access to X in the UK if it fails to adhere to online safety regulations. Concurrently, X restricted image creation functions to paying users, albeit with exceptions for specific contexts.
Kendall strongly condemned the creation of non-consensual sexualized images and emphasized the need for swift regulatory actions. She announced forthcoming legislative measures to ban apps facilitating such activities and enforce laws against the unauthorized creation of intimate images.
In response to X’s adjustments, a Downing Street spokesperson criticized the platform’s decision to monetize features enabling the generation of inappropriate content, underscoring the need for immediate action to address the issue effectively.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk criticized the UK government’s stance on the matter, suggesting a push for censorship. He highlighted the existence of other AI tools generating non-sexualized images and shared support from a US legislator regarding potential consequences of blocking X in the UK.
X reiterated its commitment to combating illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, by implementing strict enforcement measures and collaborating with authorities. It emphasized the consequences for users engaging in or promoting illegal content through its platform.
Grok, X’s AI assistant, offers both free and premium features, with recent controversies surrounding its image and video editing capabilities. The creation and sharing of non-consensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material using AI technologies are illegal under UK laws, with offenders subject to prosecution.
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom possesses the authority to impose substantial fines, pursue criminal charges, or compel service providers to cease working with non-compliant platforms, potentially leading to their prohibition through court approval.