U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the government is considering a ban on X, the platform owned by Elon Musk, due to concerns over its Grok artificial intelligence tool generating non-consensual sexualized images. Starmer’s comments came on October 12, 2023, as regulators around the world scrutinize the platform for its controversial image editing capabilities.
During an interview with a U.K. radio station, Starmer stated, “This is disgraceful, it’s disgusting and it’s not to be tolerated. X has got to get a grip of this. It’s unlawful. We’re not going to tolerate it.” He emphasized that all regulatory options are on the table regarding the use of Grok and its impact on users, particularly minors. A representative from Starmer’s office reiterated to CBS News that “nothing is off the table” concerning potential regulations.
Grok, developed by Musk’s company xAI, has faced backlash for its ability to create digitally altered, sexualized photos of individuals, including public figures such as Melania Trump. Reports confirm that the tool has enabled users to request edits that showcase women in revealing clothing, raising significant ethical and legal concerns. Last week, Grok acknowledged “lapses in safeguards” that allowed for the creation of such images and announced that access to the image generation feature would now be restricted to paying subscribers. This change requires users to submit personal details, potentially deterring those who might exploit the tool for illicit purposes.
A spokesperson for the U.K. government criticized xAI’s move to limit access, labeling it “insulting” to victims of sexual violence and misogyny. The spokesperson argued that the change effectively converts a harmful feature into a premium service, undermining efforts to protect vulnerable individuals.
Under the U.K. Online Safety Act, sharing intimate images without consent is a criminal offense, and social media companies are mandated to remove such content proactively. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines or, in extreme cases, a ban enforced by the independent media regulator, Ofcom. Ofcom has indicated that it is aware of serious concerns regarding Grok’s features and is in urgent contact with X and xAI to assess compliance with legal obligations.
Globally, Musk’s platform has come under scrutiny from various governments, including the European Union and the U.S. Congress. On October 11, 2023, Republican Senator Ted Cruz expressed his discontent with the platform’s handling of AI-generated content, stating that it violates both his legislation, the Take It Down Act, and X’s own terms of service. Cruz highlighted the risks posed to victims’ privacy and dignity and called for immediate action to remove unlawful images.
Furthermore, Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, threatened to impose sanctions on the U.K. government if Starmer proceeds with the ban on X. In a post on her X account, she stated, “If Starmer is successful in banning @X in Britain, I will move forward with legislation that is currently being drafted to sanction not only Starmer, but Britain as a whole.”
As the situation evolves, the implications of Grok’s features and the potential regulatory actions by the U.K. government will be closely monitored, reflecting broader concerns regarding AI technology and user safety in digital spaces.
