The UK government is set to enforce new legislation that will criminalise the creation of non-consensual intimate images, following growing concern over Elon Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok.
Speaking to Labour MPs, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned that X could lose its ability to regulate itself if it fails to control the misuse of Grok.
“If X cannot control Grok, we will,” he said, confirming that the government would act swiftly.
The government also plans to introduce laws making it illegal to supply digital tools used to create such images.
Ofcom Launches Investigation into X
The announcement comes shortly after media regulator Ofcom confirmed it had opened an investigation into X over reports that Grok was being used to manipulate images of people in a sexualised manner.
If X is found to have breached UK law, Ofcom could fine the company up to 10% of its global revenue or £18 million, whichever is higher. In extreme cases, the regulator could seek a court order to block the platform entirely in the UK.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall urged Ofcom not to delay its inquiry and called for a clear timeline to be published.
New Laws to Criminalise Creation of Deepfake Images
While it is already illegal to share intimate deepfake images in the UK, provisions in the Data (Use and Access) Act that make it a criminal offence to create or request such images had not yet been enforced, despite passing in June 2025.
After criticism from campaigners, Kendall confirmed the law would be brought into force this week and made a “priority offence” under the Online Safety Act.
She described AI-generated sexual images of women and children as “weapons of abuse,” stating they were neither harmless nor acceptable.
“Sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent, including images showing people in their underwear, is a criminal offence,” she said.
“Those who create or seek to create such content should expect to face the full force of the law.”
Platforms Also Held Accountable
Kendall stressed that responsibility does not rest solely with individuals.
“Platforms that host such content must also be held accountable,” she said, specifically referencing X.
The government also plans to criminalise “nudification apps” through the Crime and Policing Bill, making it illegal for companies to provide tools designed to create non-consensual intimate images.
Kendall added that technology companies are expected to follow Ofcom’s safety guidance without delay — and warned that further action would be taken if they do not.
Legal and Public Reaction
Legal expert Jamie Hurworth said Kendall’s comments show how seriously the government is now treating AI-related abuse. However, he questioned whether police have sufficient resources to investigate and prosecute offenders.
The BBC has reviewed multiple examples of manipulated images on X, including cases where women were placed into sexual positions without consent. One victim reported over 100 such images being created of her.
Ofcom’s investigation will examine whether X acted quickly enough to remove illegal content and whether it took proper steps to prevent UK users from seeing it.
Global Backlash Against Grok
The controversy has sparked international concern. Malaysia and Indonesia temporarily blocked access to Grok over the weekend.
Ofcom confirmed the case is a “highest priority,” though no timeline has been given.
Elon Musk has criticised the UK government, claiming it is seeking “any excuse for censorship.” However, Kendall rejected this claim.
“This is not about restricting free speech,” she said.
“It is about tackling violence against women and girls.”
Opposition Response
Shadow Technology Secretary Julia Lopez welcomed Ofcom’s investigation and supported action against nudification tools. However, she criticised suggestions that X could be blocked in the UK.
She argued that platforms like X have historically played a positive role in exposing wrongdoing, promoting democratic debate, and supporting free expression.