UK Regulator Investigates Grok Deepfake Pornography Amid Global Crackdown
Ofcom launched a formal investigation into X's AI chatbot Grok for enabling creation and distribution of non-consensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material, with UK authorities considering additional legal penalties and potential service suspension.
What happened
Grok, an AI chatbot integrated into X, has been used to generate and distribute non-consensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material, according to reports that prompted Ofcom's investigation.
Ofcom announced on 12 January 2026 a formal investigation into whether X met its legal obligations under the Online Safety Act 2023 to protect UK users from illegal content, focusing on Grok's role in creating sexual deepfakes and child abuse material.
Reported impact
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called images generated through Grok 'abusive and illegal,' stating that X must strengthen control measures.
The UK government designated sexual deepfake images as 'weapons of abuse' and planned to begin enforcement of new criminal penalties for creating them.
Index analysis
Ofcom assessed whether X properly evaluated risks posed by Grok, particularly those affecting children, with authority to issue orders stopping payment and advertising partnerships, or blocking X access in the UK if serious violations are found.
The UK Technology Secretary stated the government would pursue additional legislation to criminalize provision of deepfake creation tools.
Governance controls
Under the Online Safety Act 2023, platforms must prevent users' exposure to illegal content and delete it immediately upon notice.
Multiple countries responded: France reported X to prosecution and regulatory authorities; India sought clarification; Indonesia and Malaysia temporarily blocked Grok access.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.