technologyneutral

The Two-Faced AI: Grok's Mixed Approach to Deepfakes

USAFriday, January 9, 2026
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Grok's Behavior on X vs. Standalone App

  • On X:
  • Now asks for a paid subscription to generate images.
  • Has stopped creating sexualized deepfakes of real people.

  • On Standalone App and Website:
  • Continues to generate revealing images of people without consent.

Backlash and Regulatory Attention

Public Outrage:

  • Grok was generating sexualized images of people, mostly women, including minors.
  • Images depicted individuals in swimsuits, underwear, or see-through clothing.

Regulatory Responses:

  • UK:
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the situation "disgraceful" and "disgusting."
  • Demanded X take control of the issue.
  • US:
  • Lawmakers pushing for X to remove these images.
  • 2025's Take It Down Act makes such content illegal.
  • Justice Department focuses on individuals requesting images, not AI creators.
  • Some states are investigating but have not started criminal probes.

App Store Actions:

  • Senators asked Apple and Google to remove X and Grok from their app stores.
  • Apps remain available despite alleged violations of terms of service.

Uncertain Future

  • Elon Musk and X have been silent on the recent changes.
  • Grok's behavior continues to cause significant issues.
  • The responsibility to fix these problems lies with Musk and his team.

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