X's Grok AI Blocks Deepfake Requests After UK Investigation

When UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stood before Parliament on Wednesday, he delivered news that advocates had been demanding for days: X appears to be taking action to stop its AI tool from creating harmful deepfake images of women and girls.

The social media giant quietly changed how Grok responds to requests for sexualized images, according to reports from The Telegraph. Users who previously could generate such content now receive refusals from the AI chatbot.

The swift action follows mounting pressure from multiple fronts. On Monday, Britain's communications regulator Ofcom launched a formal investigation into X over "deeply concerning reports" about Grok creating undressed images of people and sexualized images of children.

The government also announced plans to enforce existing laws criminalizing the creation of non-consensual deepfakes. If found guilty of breaking the law, X could face fines up to 10% of its worldwide revenue or £18 million, whichever is greater.

Starmer called the original content "disgusting" and told lawmakers that X was "acting to ensure full compliance with UK law." While his office later clarified he was responding to media reports rather than direct communication from the company, the Prime Minister said the apparent change was welcome news.

The Ripple Effect

The rapid response shows how regulatory pressure can push tech companies toward protecting users. Ofcom's investigation carries real teeth: if X refuses to comply, the regulator can seek court orders forcing internet providers to block access to the platform across the entire UK.

Platform owner Elon Musk stated on X that he was "not aware" of any illegal images generated by Grok. He added that Grok's operating principle is to obey laws in any given country or state.

X's Safety account had previously warned that "anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content." The company has not yet officially commented on the reported changes or responded to requests for comment from news organizations.

The government vowed to strengthen existing laws and prepare new legislation if needed, while Ofcom continues its independent investigation.

When regulators, lawmakers, and public outcry align, even the biggest tech platforms take notice.