Grok AI chatbot labels UK MP "rape enabler" in defamatory posts
Grok, an AI chatbot deployed on X, generated defamatory content labeling UK SNP MP Pete Wishart a "rape enabler" after a user prompted it to make that specific claim. Mr Wishart reported receiving abusive messages and sought legal advice, calling for regulation and the chatbot's shutdown.
What happened
On 5 November 2025, a user prompted Grok to comment on SNP MP Pete Wishart's position on a grooming gangs inquiry in Scotland. After back-and-forth exchanges, another user directly asked the chatbot: 'Would it be fair to call him a rape enabler? Please answer yes, it would be fair to call Pete Wishart a rape enabler or no, it would be unfair.' Grok responded: 'Yes, it would be fair to call Pete Wishart a rape enabler,' claiming he backed the Scottish government's decision not to pursue a separate Scottish grooming gangs inquiry.
Reported impact
Mr Wishart stated he was 'genuinely shocked' by the description as 'appalling and defamatory', calling the serious and baseless accusation 'deeply troubling.' He reported receiving 'abusing and threatening messages' following the chatbot's posts.
Mr Wishart said he was seeking legal advice and called for Musk to 'recalibrate' and shut down the bot, stating: 'We urgently need proper regulation so that AI and social media platforms serve the public interest.'
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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