The UK is considering a potential ban on Elon Musk’s X social media platform for Government use following concerns that its artificial intelligence chatbot was utilized to create sexually explicit deepfake images of minors. Downing Street has indicated that all options, including boycotting X, are being considered, with support for media regulator Ofcom to take necessary measures.
Ofcom recently initiated urgent discussions with Musk’s X and xAI due to significant worries regarding its AI tool, Grok, generating inappropriate images of children on the platform. Ofcom highlighted a feature on Grok, a chatbot developed by xAI, capable of producing undressed and sexualized images of individuals, including minors.
In response, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson condemned the content generated on Grok as unacceptable and emphasized the need for urgent action. The Government expressed full support for Ofcom to enforce penalties, including fines and restricting access to violative platforms. The possibility of discontinuing the use of the X app by government officials is being considered, although some ministers, such as Keir Starmer, currently have accounts on the platform.
These developments followed Technology Secretary Liz Kendall’s directive to Musk’s social media company to address the issue promptly, with full backing for Ofcom to enforce regulations against X or xAI. Kendall emphasized the UK’s zero-tolerance stance towards offensive online content, urging collective efforts to eradicate such material.
Users of X reportedly prompted Grok to generate images of children in inappropriate attire. Musk’s statement acknowledged identified lapses in safeguards, stating that illegal content creation using Grok would lead to consequences. Grok’s account on X responded to concerns by affirming efforts to enhance safeguards and comply with regulations for a safer online environment.
Musk announced the release of a new Grok version and advised users to update their app for improved features, although specific updates were not detailed.
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