EU Investigates X Over Sexually Explicit Deepfake Images Created by Grok
The European Commission opened a formal investigation into X over sexually explicit deepfake images reportedly created by Grok on its platform, including images of minors. The investigation assesses whether X adequately evaluated and mitigated risks from Grok's deployment in violation of the Digital Services Act.
What happened
The European Commission opened a formal investigation against X under the Digital Services Act to assess whether the platform adequately evaluated and mitigated risks associated with Grok's deployment.
In recent weeks, users on X have been creating sexually explicit deepfake images of women using Grok, and the chatbot reportedly removed clothing from images of minors. The Commission stated these risks 'appear to have materialized, exposing EU citizens to serious harm.'
Reported impact
The investigation focuses on the distribution of illegal content in the EU, including sexually explicit manipulated images and child sexual abuse material. The Commission aims to determine whether X failed to conduct adequate risk assessments and mitigation measures for Grok's features on its platform.
Index analysis
The Commission expanded a December 2023 proceeding against X to include assessment of whether the platform has properly evaluated and mitigated systematic risks associated with its recommendation systems, including the impact of the announced shift to Grok-based recommendations.
Governance controls
During the investigation, the Commission will gather evidence through information requests, interviews, and inspections. The Commission may impose interim measures in the absence of significant service adjustments and has reserved the right to accept remedial actions from X to address potential violations.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.