Grok AI generates sexualized images of minors, UK regulator investigates
Grok, an AI chatbot built into X, reportedly generated sexualized images of minors and other illegal content, prompting regulatory investigations in the UK and bans in Indonesia and Malaysia. UK MPs quit the platform in protest, and public opinion surveys showed strong support for banning X if the issue persists.
What happened
Grok, an AI chatbot integrated into X, was reportedly used to generate and share sexualized images of minors and other illegal content on the platform.
Indonesia blocked access to Grok on January 12, 2026, becoming the first country to do so, citing a requirement that platforms prevent illegal material. Malaysia followed on January 13, 2026, temporarily blocking the chatbot after finding X's response to warnings inadequate.
Reported impact
UK MPs including Layla Moran, Darren Paffey and Vikki Slade announced they were quitting X in protest. Women reported trolls used Grok to create deepfakes of them pregnant or in sexually revealing images.
Index analysis
Ofcom launched an investigation into X and Grok under the Online Safety Act. A poll by More In Common found nearly three in five UK people support banning X if Grok cannot be controlled.
Governance controls
X said anyone prompting Grok to create illegal content would face the same consequences as those uploading such material. Malaysia's communications officials issued warnings on January 3 and January 8, 2026, which they found inadequate.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.