U.K. Considers Ban on X Over Deepfake Concerns; Canada Stays Out

The United Kingdom is exploring a potential ban on the social media platform X, amidst rising concerns regarding its AI assistant, Grok, which has been implicated in generating sexualized deepfakes. While the U.K. seeks international backing for this move, Canada has clarified that it will not partake in such actions at this time.

The controversy surrounding X centers on Grok’s ability to create manipulated images that have raised alarm among government officials. Reports indicate that Grok has been used to produce explicit content involving women and children, including altering photographs to remove clothing. This has prompted significant backlash from U.K. politicians, who are advocating for a stronger regulatory response.

In reaction to the uproar, X, under the leadership of Elon Musk, stated that the issue was attributed to shortcomings in its AI safeguards. The company implemented measures to restrict image generation to paying customers. Despite these steps, demands for more stringent regulations have intensified, particularly from officials in the U.K. and the European Union.

Other nations have taken decisive action against Grok. On January 8, 2026, the Guardian reported that Malaysia became the second country to temporarily block access to Grok, following Indonesia’s similar decision. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) cited concerns over the AI’s capacity to produce “obscene, sexually explicit, indecent, grossly offensive, and nonconsensual manipulated images.” Germany has also called for legal measures from the European Commission, expressing fears over the “industrialization of sexual harassment.”

In the U.K., the independent media regulator, Ofcom, announced a formal investigation into X, particularly focusing on Grok’s image creation feature. Ofcom described the reports as “deeply concerning,” emphasizing that the creation of non-consensual intimate images could amount to abuse or pornography. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has voiced strong support for the investigation, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding children online. The Online Safety Act mandates social media platforms to enforce strict age verification and prohibits the distribution of non-consensual intimate images.

Canada’s response has been more measured. While discussions between U.K. and Canadian officials took place regarding a coordinated approach, Evan Solomon, Canada’s AI Minister, clarified that Canada is not considering a ban on X. His earlier statements highlighted the need to protect Canadians, particularly vulnerable populations, from exploitation facilitated by deepfake technology. Solomon emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible AI usage, including the introduction of Bill C-16.

Musk’s reaction to the U.K.’s proposed ban has been notably dismissive. He referred to the U.K. government as “fascist” while suggesting that the controversy surrounding X has actually resulted in increased downloads of the platform. In response to Canada’s decision not to pursue a ban, Musk simply posted two emojis: a Canadian flag and a heart, indicating a more lighthearted take on the situation.

As the debate over AI-generated content intensifies, the actions taken by the U.K. and other countries may set significant precedents regarding the regulation of social media platforms and their AI tools. The evolving landscape of digital content and its implications for user safety remain at the forefront of international discussions.