Liz Kendall, the Technology Secretary, expressed her support for Ofcom in potentially blocking Elon Musk’s social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. This decision comes in light of concerns over the platform’s Grok AI bot allegedly generating sexualized images of children.
The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology stated that Ofcom would have the Government’s full backing should it decide to use its authority under the Online Safety Act to restrict access to services in the UK.
In a recent post on X, Kendall warned, “If X fails to address the issue, we will take action.”
This declaration follows Ofcom’s swift action after reports surfaced that users leveraged the Grok AI on X to create sexualized images, including those of children. Elon Musk’s platform reacted by restricting the image generation feature behind a paywall, triggering further government displeasure.
Ofcom recently acknowledged serious concerns regarding Grok’s feature on X, which produces inappropriate images, and initiated urgent discussions with Elon Musk’s company to address potential compliance issues.
In response, Ofcom shared an update stating, “We have received a response and are expeditiously assessing the situation to provide further information soon.”
Grok, an AI assistant on X, offers both free and premium features, responding to user queries. The platform has faced criticism for generating deepfake content, including nude images of celebrities and inappropriate depictions of individuals.
The creation or sharing of non-consensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material, such as AI-generated deepfakes, is illegal in the UK, with offenders subject to legal repercussions.
Under the Online Safety Act, tech companies must evaluate and mitigate the risk of users encountering illicit content on their platforms promptly.
Expressing strong disapproval, Liz Kendall emphasized, “The manipulation of women and children’s images is reprehensible. It is unacceptable for Grok to offer this as a paid service. I anticipate that Ofcom will utilize its legal authority effectively.”
Kendall urged for swift action, stating, “I, and the public, expect timely updates from Ofcom on the next steps.”
She highlighted the Online Safety Act’s provisions, emphasizing the power to block services in the UK if platforms do not comply with regulations. Kendall affirmed full support for Ofcom in utilizing these measures if necessary.
Legislation is underway to prohibit nudification apps in the Crime and Policing Bill currently in parliament, with plans to criminalize the creation of intimate images without consent in the near future.
In the effort to ensure online safety, Ofcom holds the authority to impose