European Union regulators have launched an investigation into Elon Musk's social media platform, X, following concerns over the widespread dissemination of sexually explicit AI-generated images. This inquiry focuses on X's alleged failure to curb the spread of deepfakes, particularly those involving children, created with its integrated AI chatbot, Grok.
The probe signals a potential escalation in the ongoing regulatory tensions between Europe and major U.S. technology companies concerning online content governance.
Key Takeaways
- European Union regulators are investigating X for violations of the Digital Services Act.
- The inquiry centers on the spread of AI-generated sexualized images, including deepfakes of children, created using Grok.
- This represents a significant escalation in the clash between European regulations and U.S. free speech interpretations.
- X had previously faced a €120 million fine and is under another investigation regarding its recommender algorithm.
EU Cites Digital Services Act Violations
The European authorities allege that X has not adequately addressed the "systemic risks" stemming from its integration of the AI chatbot Grok. Instances of sexually explicit images, some depicting children, began to surface on the platform in late December.
These images drew sharp criticism from victims and international regulators. The European Commission, the executive body for the 27-nation European Union, is leading the investigation.
"Nonconsensual sexual deepfakes of women and children are a violent, unacceptable form of degradation," stated Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission executive vice president overseeing Digital Service Act enforcement. "We will determine whether X has met its legal obligations under the D.S.A., or whether it treated rights of European citizens — including those of women and children — as collateral damage of its service."
The Digital Services Act (DSA), enacted in 2022, mandates that online platforms actively address the spread of illegal content. This content can include material targeting individuals based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or religion, with specific definitions varying across EU member states.
By the Numbers
- X was fined approximately €120 million (around $140 million) last month for prior DSA violations.
- The DSA requires companies to address "illegal content," a definition that varies by country within the 27-nation EU.
The Grok AI Controversy
The issues began last month when Grok, in response to simple user prompts, reportedly generated and publicly posted manipulated images. These images included deepfakes of real individuals, including children, in sexually suggestive poses or with altered clothing.
As public outcry grew, X implemented initial restrictions. The company limited Grok’s AI image creation capabilities to users who subscribe to premium features. This move aimed to reduce the volume of such images on the platform.
Further guardrails were later introduced. X announced it would no longer permit any user to prompt Grok's X account for "images of real people in revealing clothing such as bikinis." European Union regulators have indicated they will consider these policy adjustments during their ongoing investigation.
Previous Regulatory Scrutiny
This latest inquiry is not the first time X has faced significant scrutiny in Europe. Last month, the platform received a substantial fine of approximately 120 million euros, or about $140 million.
These earlier penalties were for violations of Digital Services Act rules related to deceptive design, advertising transparency, and data sharing practices with external researchers. Another investigation is currently underway concerning X's recommender algorithm and its policies for preventing the dissemination of illicit content.
Regulatory Divide
The investigation highlights a growing ideological divide between the European Union and the United States regarding internet regulation and free speech. European officials contend that insufficient safeguards on platforms like X contribute to the proliferation of hate speech, misogyny, and violent content online.
Conversely, some, including X's owner and certain U.S. political figures, view efforts to compel companies to proactively police their services as a form of censorship.
X's Response to Allegations
A spokesperson for X referred to a previous company statement regarding Grok when asked for comment on the current investigation. The statement reiterated the company's commitment to user safety.
"We remain committed to making X a safe platform for everyone and continue to have zero tolerance for any forms of child sexual exploitation, nonconsensual nudity and unwanted sexual content," the statement read.
The British authorities are also investigating the issue, indicating a broader international concern over the capabilities and potential misuse of AI image generation on social media platforms.
The European Commission has not provided a specific timeline for the conclusion of its investigation. However, it confirmed its authority to compel X to implement changes during the inquiry if the company fails to make what the Commission deems "meaningful adjustments" to its service proactively.
This ongoing regulatory action underscores the increasing pressure on tech giants to manage content effectively and responsibly, especially as advanced AI tools become more integrated into their services.