The UK government has issued a stern warning to the social media platform X, following disturbing revelations about its AI tool, Grok. The tool has been implicated in generating sexualised deepfake images of both women and children, prompting UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to describe the practice as “disgusting.” He indicated that a ban on the platform is now a possibility, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing this serious issue.
The growing scandal has provoked outrage across the country, with numerous public figures being targeted. Reports confirm that some of the AI-generated images have already appeared on the dark web, raising significant concerns about the potential for illegal child sexual abuse material. Prime Minister Starmer has stated that the government will not tolerate such content, directing Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, to explore all possible measures to combat this abuse.
In a statement reported by The Telegraph, Starmer condemned X for allowing Grok to produce images of naked women and children, including high-profile personalities such as the Princess of Wales and various cabinet ministers. “This is disgraceful. It’s disgusting, and it’s not to be tolerated,” he declared. He further emphasised that X “needs to get their act together,” warning that action would be taken if the platform does not remove the offensive material promptly.
On January 7, 2026, Ofcom revealed that Grok-generated images had been circulated on the dark web, constituting illegal content. Starmer confirmed that he had instructed Ofcom to ensure “all options are on the table,” which may include a ban on X if the platform does not take adequate action. “X has got to get a grip of this,” he stated. “We’re not going to tolerate it. I’ve asked for all options to be on the table.”
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom possesses the authority to apply for an access restriction order. This court order could compel internet service providers and smartphone app stores to block platforms deemed harmful in the UK. Although this power has never been exercised, Ofcom has indicated that it may soon launch an investigation into X.
Elon Musk, the owner of X, has cautioned users against using Grok to create illegal content, asserting that violators will face consequences similar to those experienced by individuals who upload illegal material. However, critics argue that X has not done enough to prevent the misuse of Grok. Research indicates that users generate thousands of sexualised images with Grok on an hourly basis, often using prompts such as “put her in a bikini.” This results in the creation of synthetic images that lack consent.
Among those impacted by these developments is a prominent figure who expressed that while the images produced by Grok are synthetic, they feel as violating as actual nude photographs. The UK government has made it clear that it will act decisively if X fails to address these serious concerns. Ofcom has already initiated “urgent contact” with the platform and is poised to begin a formal investigation. As of now, neither Musk nor X has issued a statement regarding the potential ban in the UK.
