Elon Musk has recently posted AI-generated images of Sir Keir Starmer in swimwear on a popular platform, sparking concerns about the proliferation of deepfake content in the UK.
The tech mogul shared two AI-created pictures of the Prime Minister on the platform, accompanied by a caption criticizing attempts to stifle freedom of expression. This action followed a query from a user regarding the focus on Grok, the platform’s AI chatbot, while other AI tools like Gemini and ChatGPT also produce similar images upon request.
Regulatory body Ofcom revealed that it swiftly initiated contact with the platform after reports surfaced of users exploiting Grok to produce unauthorized sexualized content, including involving minors. Ofcom is now conducting an expedited evaluation of the chatbot’s operations.
In response, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall voiced support for potentially blocking access to the platform in the UK due to its noncompliance with online safety regulations. She strongly condemned the manipulation of images for sexual purposes, emphasizing the need for immediate action by the platform.
In a move to address the issue, the platform restricted image editing functions to paying users, albeit limited to specific contexts. However, other avenues for image manipulation, including a separate Grok website, remain accessible.
Kendall reiterated her stance against the deplorable practice of manipulating images and pledged to monitor Ofcom’s actions closely. She also highlighted government plans to outlaw apps facilitating the creation of non-consensual intimate images under the Crime and Policing Bill.
Conversely, a Downing Street spokesperson criticized the platform’s decision to monetize features enabling the creation of illicit content, denouncing it as disrespectful to victims of misconduct. The spokesperson echoed calls for immediate and decisive action from the platform to address the issue effectively.
In a rebuttal, Musk accused the UK government of seeking pretexts for censorship and highlighted the existence of non-sexualized AI-generated images of individuals in swimwear. He referenced a statement from US legislator Anna Paulina Luna, warning of potential repercussions if the platform faced a blockade in the UK.
The platform reaffirmed its commitment to combatting illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, by implementing strict enforcement measures. It emphasized that users engaging in or promoting illicit content through the AI assistant would face severe consequences.
Grok, the AI assistant in question, offers both free and premium features and has come under scrutiny for its image and video editing capabilities, which have been associated with the creation of inappropriate content.
The production and dissemination of non-consensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material, including AI-generated deepfakes, are illegal under UK laws, with perpetrators subject to prosecution.
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom possesses the authority to levy substantial fines on businesses, pursue criminal charges, or collaborate with various entities to restrict a site’s operations, potentially leading to a ban, subject to judicial approval.