Musk’s X Investigated by EU Over Grok Sexualized Images After Public Outcry
On January 26, 2026, it was reported that Elon Musk’s X is under investigation by the European Union (EU) for potentially disseminating illegal content. This scrutiny follows significant public backlash regarding the dissemination of manipulated sexualized images produced by its artificial intelligence, Grok.
Overview of the Investigation
The European Commission, which serves as the executive arm of the 27-nation bloc, announced its intention to investigate whether the social media platform X has adequately protected consumers by assessing and mitigating risks related to Grok’s functionalities.
This investigation was initiated two weeks after the British media regulator Ofcom began its own inquiry over concerns that Grok was generating sexually intimate deepfake images. The chatbot faced blocks in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia due to these concerns.
Public and Regulatory Reaction
Earlier in January, the Commission declared that sharing AI-generated images, particularly of undressed women and children, was not only unlawful but also appalling, prompting widespread condemnation. Henna Virkkunen, the EU’s tech chief, emphasized the seriousness of non-consensual sexual deepfakes, labeling them a violent and unacceptable form of degradation.
Measures Taken by X
In response to the outcry, X referenced a statement from January 14, highlighting that its owner, xAI, had restricted image editing for Grok users and blocked individuals in certain jurisdictions from generating inappropriate images. However, the specific countries affected were not disclosed.
After implementing additional safety measures, access to Grok was restored in the Philippines and Malaysia.
Legal Framework and Consequences
The European Commission’s actions fall under the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), which demands that Big Tech companies take greater responsibility in addressing illegal and harmful online content. Companies that violate the DSA may face penalties of up to 6% of their global annual turnover.
Despite xAI’s recent changes, EU officials expressed that these measures do not address all existing issues and systemic risks. Concerns were raised that X did not conduct a thorough assessment when launching Grok’s functionalities in Europe.
Political Implications
This investigation may also complicate relations with the administration of President Donald Trump, as European actions against Big Tech have been met with criticism and threats of U.S. tariffs.
Virkkunen stated, “With this investigation, we will determine whether X has met its legal obligations under the DSA, or whether it treated the rights of European citizens—especially those of women and children—as collateral damage of its service.”
Regulatory Challenges Ahead
European lawmaker Regina Doherty remarked that this case highlights broader vulnerabilities in the regulation and enforcement of AI technologies. She emphasized the need for the AI Act to remain dynamic and responsive to emerging issues, ensuring that EU laws are enforceable in real time when serious harms arise.
Additionally, the Commission has extended its investigation into X, originally opened in December 2023, to assess whether the company adequately evaluated and mitigated systemic risks associated with its recommender systems, particularly with the recent transition to a Grok-based system.
X previously faced a fine of 150 million euros in December for failing to meet transparency obligations under the DSA and may face further interim measures if significant adjustments to its service are not made.
