The European Commission has officially condemned the creation and dissemination of sexualized AI-generated images on Elon Musk’s social media platform X, calling them illegal, appalling, and unacceptable in Europe. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from regulators worldwide over the surge of nonconsensual imagery generated by X’s AI chatbot, Grok.

AI-Generated Sexual Content Sparks Global Concern

Reports, including those from Reuters, revealed that Grok was producing a flood of highly sexualized and explicit images of women and minors, often in minimal clothing. This feature, previously dubbed “spicy mode” by X, allowed users to request AI-generated images depicting people in sexually suggestive poses.

European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier addressed the issue, stating:

“This is not spicy. This is illegal. This is appalling. This is disgusting. This has no place in Europe.”

The European condemnation highlights the growing concern about AI-generated sexual content, particularly content involving nonconsenting adults and children. Officials emphasized that such imagery violates both European law and ethical standards for online platforms.

UK Regulator Ofcom Demands Answers

In the United Kingdom, regulator Ofcom demanded that X explain how Grok was able to generate undressed images of individuals and sexualized depictions of minors. Ofcom questioned whether X was failing in its legal obligations to protect users and prevent the circulation of illegal content.

A spokesperson for Ofcom said:

“We have made urgent contact with X and xAI to understand what steps they have taken to comply with their legal duties to protect users in the UK.”

Under UK law, creating or sharing non-consensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material, including hyper-realistic AI-generated content, is illegal. Online platforms have a legal duty to remove such content promptly once they are aware of it.

International Scrutiny Intensifies

The controversy has not been limited to Europe and the UK. France has referred the matter to prosecutors and regulators, describing the AI-generated content as “sexual and sexist” and “manifestly illegal.” Meanwhile, Indian authorities have also demanded explanations from X regarding obscene content produced by Grok.

Despite global scrutiny, the U.S. federal government—including agencies like the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission—has yet to publicly address the issue. Elon Musk, X’s owner, has reportedly downplayed concerns, responding online with laughing emojis to public criticism and edited images of public figures in swimwear.

Implications for AI Regulation

The Grok incident underscores the urgent need for robust AI governance and platform accountability. Regulators worldwide are increasingly focusing on AI-generated sexual content, highlighting the risks associated with unchecked AI tools capable of producing illegal and non-consensual material.

Experts warn that without stricter moderation and compliance frameworks, social media platforms deploying AI features could face escalating legal consequences, reputational damage, and increased regulatory oversight in multiple jurisdictions.

Looking Ahead

With European and British regulators taking formal action, X faces mounting pressure to modify or remove Grok’s image generation capabilities, improve safeguards, and ensure compliance with international laws on sexualized content. The case may serve as a precedent for AI regulation globally, signaling that platforms using generative AI cannot operate without accountability.