UK Ofcom opens Online Safety Act probe into X over Grok sexual deepfakes

AI Model: Grok (xAI)

I. Executive Summary

The UK media regulator Ofcom opened a formal investigation into X, focusing on whether the platform complied with duties to protect UK users from illegal content linked to Grok-generated non-consensual intimate images. The probe examines whether X properly assessed and mitigated risks and whether it adequately considered risks to children. Reuters reported the case as a major early test of the staged implementation of the UK Online Safety Act.

II. Key Facts

Ofcom launched an investigation into X on concerns Grok was creating sexually intimate deepfake images.• Ofcom said it will examine whether X failed to assess risks of illegal content and risks to children.• Reuters reported potential escalation tools include court-backed steps affecting payment providers/advertisers or ISP blocking in serious non-compliance cases.• X said it removes illegal content and can suspend accounts; Reuters reported X restricted “undressing” requests to paying users.

III. Regulatory & Ethical Implications

Heightens UK enforcement expectations under the Online Safety Act for platforms hosting or enabling AI-generated image abuse. In-house counsel and external advisers should anticipate regulator scrutiny of risk assessments, safety-by-design controls, child-protection measures, and incident response governance for AI features integrated into consumer platforms.

IV. Media Coverage & Sources