‘Shameful Use of AI’: Elon Musk’s X Admits Mistake After Grok Controversy
The social media platform X has recently acknowledged significant gaps in its content moderation standards, following a controversy surrounding its AI tool, Grok. According to government sources, X has informed authorities that it will comply fully with all applicable laws and regulations in India.
Corrective Measures Taken
In response to the concerns raised, X has already taken steps to mitigate the issue by blocking 3,500 pieces of content and deleting over 600 accounts. Furthermore, the platform has assured authorities that it will not permit any obscene imagery on its site moving forward.
Background of the Issue
This issue was highlighted after reports surfaced regarding the circulation of obscene and sexually explicit content on X, including material that was allegedly generated or amplified through its AI tool, Grok. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) took action by sending a notice to X’s Chief Compliance Officer, demanding a detailed action report within 72 hours regarding compliance measures to prevent the hosting or sharing of inappropriate content.
Legal Implications
In its communication, MeitY emphasized that failure to observe due diligence obligations could result in the loss of exemption from liability under Section 79 of the IT Act. It stated that X would be liable for any consequential action as mandated by applicable laws.
Criticism and Concerns
Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticized X for its approach to managing problematic content generated by Grok, arguing that restricting such image generation to paid users does not adequately address the risks involved. In her post on X, she claimed that this policy effectively enables the unauthorized misuse of images of women and children, putting them at risk. She described the platform’s actions as a ‘shameful use of AI’.
International Reactions
In a notable response to growing concerns over AI misuse, Indonesia has become the first country to completely suspend access to Grok. This decision underscores the increasing global apprehension regarding the potential for AI technologies to create sexualized images without consent.
As the discourse around AI ethics continues to evolve, the controversy surrounding Grok serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities that technology companies must uphold.
