The UK's regulatory body has begun investigating Elon Musk's X platform following concerns that the AI tool Grok was used to create pornographic images.
Foreign news agencies reported on 12 Jan 2026 that Ofcom, the UK's independent communications regulator, has initiated an investigation into Elon Musk's X platform over concerns that Grok, the platform's AI tool, is being used to generate pornographic images.
Ofcom stated in a release that there are extremely concerning reports about the use of the Grok chatbot to create and share nude images of individuals, including “child pornography.”
If illegal activities are confirmed, Ofcom may impose a fine on X of up to 10% of its global revenue or £18 million (approximately 800 million baht), whichever is higher.
X directed BBC to a statement posted by the X account “Safety” earlier in January, which said: “Anyone using or prompting Grok to generate illegal content will face penalties equivalent to uploading illegal content.”
Meanwhile, Elon Musk later posted that “The UK government will use any excuse for censorship,” responding to an internet user who questioned why other AI platforms are not under similar scrutiny.
BBC reported discovering numerous digitally altered images on X where women were depicted nude and posed sexually without consent. One victim said over 100 pornographic images of her had been created.
If X fails to comply with regulations, Ofcom can seek a court order to require internet service providers to block access to the entire X website within the UK.
Liz Kendall, the UK's Minister for Technology, told BBC she welcomed Ofcom's investigation and urged its swift completion. “It is very important that Ofcom concludes this investigation quickly because the public, especially victims, will not tolerate any delays.”
The UK Prime Minister’s Office at 10 Downing Street stated that the government remains committed to protecting children and will continue reviewing its use of the X platform.
Going forward, Ofcom will examine whether X failed to promptly remove illegal content upon notification and whether it took “appropriate steps” to prevent UK users from accessing such content.
Ofcom said the illegal content includes “non-consensual pornographic images” and child pornography. It will also investigate whether X has effective age verification measures to prevent children from viewing pornographic material.
This UK move comes amid global criticism of Grok for its image generation feature, which has been easily used to produce pornographic images. Malaysia and Indonesia temporarily suspended access to the AI tool over the past weekend.
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Source:bbc