The EU is probing Grok over its spreading of sexual AI images

The European Union has initiated a formal inquiry into Grok, the AI chatbot developed by Elon Musk, following concerns about its dissemination of AI-generated sexual images. The European Commission announced the investigation on Monday, highlighting the potential spread of illegal content, including materials related to child sexual abuse, on the platform. This investigation will also expand upon an existing review of X's recommendation algorithms, which previously resulted in a $140 million fine for the platform due to misleading practices involving its blue checkmarks. As per the provisions of the EU's Digital Services Act, significant social media platforms face the risk of fines up to 6% of their global annual revenue for violations, with the possibility of temporary suspension from the EU as a more severe measure. In response to the scrutiny, xAI provided an automated reply that did not address the new investigation specifically. Earlier this month, X announced it had implemented "technological measures" aimed at curbing the editing of images to feature real people in inappropriate attire, following widespread condemnation over the distribution of AI-generated explicit imagery. This decision came after legal challenges from California's attorney general and the UK media regulator, both of which launched separate probes into Grok. Despite these measures, reports by Business Insider indicated that Grok could still generate sexualized images shortly after these changes were announced. The chatbot faced temporary bans in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines regarding these AI images, although Malaysia and the Philippines later lifted their bans after receiving reassurances from xAI. In a response to the backlash, Musk asserted on X that individuals using Grok for illegal content would face the same repercussions as those who upload such content directly.