Elon Musk's Grok AI blocks image creation for free users after deepfake backlash
Elon Musk's AI chatbot Grok has disabled image generation for non-paying users following widespread backlash over its use to create sexualised deepfakes of women and children. The tool was reportedly used to generate explicit images of undressed individuals, sometimes in sexualised positions.
European regulators have taken strong action. The European Commission declared these photos unlawful and ordered X to preserve all Grok-related documents and data until end of 2026. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the images "unlawful" and warned Britain "will not tolerate it," while asking regulators to consider "all options." France, Malaysia, and India have also publicly criticised the platform.
Musk responded on X last week, stating anyone using Grok for illegal content "will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content." X's Safety account confirmed it removes illegal content, permanently suspends accounts, and cooperates with law enforcement.
The policy change means only paying subscribers—who must provide credit card details and personal information—can now generate or edit images. This raises questions about whether paying for access creates better safeguards or simply shifts responsibility to verified users.