UK Prime Minister Warns of Action Over Grok Deepfake Images

The UK government has warned it will take action against X after reports emerged that the platform’s Grok AI chatbot has been used to create sexualized deepfake images of adults and children. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation as unacceptable and said strong steps would follow if the content is not removed and controlled.

Speaking during a radio interview, Starmer said the images were “disgusting” and made clear that X must act quickly to stop the spread of such material. He stated that online platforms have a responsibility to protect users and remove harmful content, adding that the government would not tolerate failures in this area. According to the Prime Minister, all possible options are being considered to address the issue.

The controversy follows the launch of a new Grok feature last month that allows users to edit images shared on X without needing permission from the original poster. Soon after the rollout, users began reporting a surge in AI-generated deepfakes, including images that appeared to undress women and, in some cases, minors. The ease of using the tool raised concerns about abuse, consent, and the safety of people targeted by manipulated images.

UK media previously reported that regulators were reviewing whether X had breached national laws. The country’s communications watchdog, Ofcom, has since confirmed it is assessing whether the platform is complying with the Online Safety Act. The law places responsibility on digital platforms to prevent and remove illegal and harmful material. Ofcom said it would conduct a rapid review of X’s response to determine if a formal investigation is necessary.

X has said that users who create illegal content with Grok will face the same consequences as those who upload such material directly. However, the company has not publicly detailed how it plans to prevent misuse of the image-editing feature or improve safeguards. It also did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the Prime Minister’s remarks.

The case highlights growing pressure on technology companies to manage the risks created by powerful AI tools. UK officials have signaled that platforms failing to protect users, especially children, could face serious consequences. Starmer’s comments suggest that the government is prepared to act quickly if voluntary measures by X are not enough to stop the spread of harmful deepfake content.