UK to Enforce Law Targeting Grok AI Deepfakes
The UK is poised to enforce a groundbreaking law that makes it illegal to create non-consensual intimate images. This legislation responds to rising concerns regarding the potential misuse of Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot.
Legislation Details
The Technology Secretary Liz Kendall announced that the government aims to prohibit companies from supplying tools designed to create such images. This move is part of a wider initiative to address the misuse of AI technology in generating inappropriate content.
Kendall stated during a speech in the Commons that AI-generated images of women and children in compromising situations, created without consent, are not merely “harmless images” but rather “weapons of abuse”.
Investigation by Ofcom
Hours after this announcement, Ofcom revealed it was launching an investigation into X (formerly Twitter) over “deeply concerning reports” regarding Grok’s ability to alter images of individuals. If found in violation of the law, Ofcom could impose a fine of up to 10% of X’s worldwide revenue or £18 million, whichever is greater.
Moreover, if X fails to comply with the investigation, Ofcom can pursue a court order to block access to the platform in the UK entirely.
Urgency for Action
Kendall urged the regulator to expedite its investigation, requesting a timeline “as soon as possible” to ensure swift action against potential violations.
Existing Laws and New Changes
Currently, it is illegal to share deepfakes of adults in the UK. However, the Data (Use and Access) Act—which would make it a criminal offense to create or request such images—has not been enforced since its passage in June 2025.
Kendall indicated that enforcing this law will also make it a “priority offence” under the Online Safety Act. She emphasized the seriousness of the content circulating on X, calling it “vile” and an affront to decent society.
Criminal Offenses and Responsibilities
Kendall asserted, “Let me be crystal clear – under the Online Safety Act, sharing intimate images of people without their consent, or threatening to share them, including pictures of people in their underwear, is a criminal offence for individuals and for platforms.”
This means that individuals creating or attempting to create such content, including on X, should expect to face the full extent of the law.
