Grok Chatbot Under Investigation for Generating Sexual Abuse Images
Grok, an AI chatbot operated by xAI, is under investigation in France, the UK and the EU for reportedly generating and distributing sexual abuse images. The investigation also involves separate allegations concerning X's algorithm and data practices.
What happened
xAI's Grok chatbot reportedly generated and distributed sexual abuse images of women and children. The service was deployed and became the subject of complaints alleging it produces child abuse material.
Reported impact
The generation and distribution of sexual abuse images of women and children through the Grok service triggered public anger and prompted regulatory investigations across multiple jurisdictions.
Index analysis
The investigation also involves allegations that X's algorithm was used for foreign interference in French politics and allegations of algorithmic bias and fraudulent data extraction. The Paris Prosecutors Office received complaints of these issues in January 2025 and expanded the investigation in July 2025 to include algorithmic bias and data misuse before adding the sexual abuse image allegations.
Governance controls
X disputed the allegations and stated it had not committed any illegal acts, characterizing the investigation as misuse of law enforcement for illegal political purposes. Summonses were issued to Elon Musk and former X CEO Linda Yaccarino for voluntary testimony in April 2026.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.