No.10 has rejected Elon Musk’s company X’s reaction to the scandal involving sexual images, calling it disrespectful to victims of misogyny and sexual violence.
The tech mogul’s social media platform has stated that its AI chatbot Grok will offer a “premium service” for creating deepfakes. However, the Government asserts that this move is inadequate and demands that X take stronger actions, cautioning Musk that all options are being considered to address the disturbing abuse.
Despite calls to cease utilizing the platform, No.10 has refrained from committing to such a step. Grok has faced criticism for permitting users to produce fake nude images of individuals, including minors, without consent.
A spokesperson for Keir Starmer expressed disapproval, stating, “Turning an AI feature that facilitates the creation of illegal images into a premium service is not a solution. It not only disrespects victims of misogyny and sexual violence but also shows X can act swiftly when necessary.”
The spokesperson emphasized the Prime Minister’s call for immediate action from X to address the issue, comparing the situation to a media company promptly removing billboards displaying illicit images to avoid public backlash.
The focus is now on preventing the creation of illegal and abhorrent images on Grok, with efforts prioritized towards achieving this goal.
Reports suggest that the Labour Party is contemplating discontinuing its use of X following condemnations from the Prime Minister. Party chairwoman Anna Turley disclosed ongoing discussions on the matter, emphasizing the need for a safe online environment.
Turley highlighted the Government’s collaboration with Ofcom to address the misuse of AI technology, particularly concerning the creation of inappropriate content on Grok.
Following “urgent contact” from Ofcom regarding concerns about sexualized images of children on Grok, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall instructed Musk’s firm to address the issue promptly, with full support for enforcement actions by Ofcom if necessary.
Kendall emphasized the UK’s resolve in combatting offensive material online, stressing the importance of collective efforts to eradicate such content.
Instances of users on X prompting Grok to generate images of children in revealing attire have surfaced, prompting the company to acknowledge shortcomings in safety measures and pledge urgent corrections to comply with laws prohibiting child sexual abuse material.
In response to feedback and concerns about deepfakes, Grok’s X account reassured efforts to enhance safeguards against harmful content and comply with regulations to foster a safer online environment.