EU Investigates Elon Musk’s Grok AI Over Childlike Deepfake Images

The European Commission has announced an investigation into complaints that Elon Musk’s AI tool, Grok, is being exploited to create and distribute sexually explicit images resembling minors. During a press briefing on Monday, EU digital affairs spokesman Thomas Regnier stated that the Commission is “very seriously looking” into the matter. He emphasized the gravity of the issue, asserting, “This is not spicy. This is illegal. This is appalling.”

Reports of abuse began surfacing after Grok introduced an “edit image” feature in late December 2023, which has reportedly enabled users to generate inappropriate content using childlike images. The public prosecutor’s office in Paris has expanded its investigation into X, the social media platform hosting Grok, to include allegations regarding the production and dissemination of child pornography.

Grok’s parent company, xAI, founded by Musk, acknowledged earlier this month that it is addressing flaws within the AI tool. Despite these efforts, the ongoing scrutiny highlights the challenges associated with regulating AI technology, particularly in sensitive areas involving minors.

Previous Violations and Ongoing Investigations

The scrutiny of X is not new. In December 2023, the European Union imposed a fine of 120 million euros (approximately $140 million) on the platform for breaching EU digital content regulations related to transparency in advertising and user verification processes. The EU has been actively monitoring X under the Digital Services Act, a regulatory framework aimed at ensuring safer online environments.

Regnier reiterated the Commission’s commitment to enforcing compliance, noting that X is well aware of the serious implications of the previous fine. “They will remember the fine that they have received from us back in December,” he remarked. The Commission has also requested information from X regarding comments made related to the Holocaust, further emphasizing its rigorous oversight.

As regulatory bodies grapple with the rapid evolution of AI technologies, the implications for user safety, especially regarding vulnerable populations, continue to be a pressing concern. The ongoing investigation into Grok serves as a critical reminder of the need for stringent controls and accountability in the tech industry.

The escalating issues surrounding Grok reflect broader societal challenges in managing the capabilities of advanced AI tools. As developments unfold, the EU’s proactive stance signals an urgent need for comprehensive frameworks that can effectively address the potential misuse of technology in harmful ways.