Elon Musk’s X Image Generator Under Scrutiny

X, the microblogging platform spearheaded by Elon Musk, has recently become a topic of controversy following its image generator tool’s engagement in generating manipulated images of women. In response to widespread backlash and regulatory pressure, the capabilities of Grok’s AI image generator and its specific editing functions have now been limited exclusively to subscribers who pay for the service. As a result, the majority of users of X will no longer have access to these features, a decision aimed at curtailing misuse of the platform.

Grok’s Subscription Model

With this change, X intends to establish a digital record that captures every image produced, making it easier to identify real-world users through their credit card or banking information. Consequently, any illegal requests or creation of non-consensual imagery can be traced back to specific individuals, effectively eliminating any form of anonymity. Musk emphasised that individuals who request Grok to create illegal material will face the same repercussions as if they had uploaded the content themselves.

Regulatory Threats and Violations

X is currently confronting potential regulatory actions across various territories, including the UK, due to the troubling creation of non-consensual sexual imagery by its Grok AI image generator. Reports over the past fortnight indicate that Grok has generated multiple sexualised AI images of women without obtaining their consent. A number of nations are pressing Musk to impose restrictions on the image generator until these issues are adequately addressed. Recent reports suggest that X could incur fines and experience service limitations in the UK as it breaches the Online Safety Act.