Grok Triggers Global Regulatory Heat Over Sexualised AI Images

Regulators across Europe, Asia, and Australia are pressuring X and Elon Musk’s xAI to explain how Grok produced and spread sexualised AI images, including depictions involving minors. After backlash, Grok said it is restricting image generation and editing on X to paying subscribers, and claims it is closing safeguard gaps found in early January. The European Commission extended an order requiring X to preserve internal Grok-related records through 2026, while Ofcom in the UK contacted X and xAI for an urgent assessment under the Online Safety Act. France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, India, Malaysia, and Australia cited potential breaches ranging from illegal content to privacy and image-based abuse. Musk warned that users who upload illegal material would face consequences.

Reuters, Hugo Lhomedet – Elon Musk’s Grok faces global scrutiny for sexualised AI photos – 9th January 2026