Downing Street has rejected a response from X, owned by Elon Musk, regarding the recent scandal involving sexual images, deeming it disrespectful to victims of misogyny and sexual violence. The social media platform run by the billionaire announced that its AI chatbot, Grok, would offer a “premium service” for creating deepfakes. However, the Government has criticized this move, stating that it is insufficient and urged X to take further action, warning Musk that all options are being considered to address the disturbing misuse.
Despite calls to do so, Downing Street has not committed to ceasing the use of the platform. Grok has faced backlash for enabling users to generate fake undressed images of individuals, including minors, without their consent.
A spokesperson for Keir Starmer remarked, “The decision to turn an AI feature allowing the creation of illegal images into a premium service is inadequate. It not only fails to address the issue but also disrespects victims of misogyny and sexual violence. This action highlights X’s ability to act swiftly when necessary.”
The spokesperson emphasized the Prime Minister’s clear message that X must take immediate action to address the matter. They added, “If another media entity displayed unlawful images in public areas, they would promptly remove them or face public outcry.”
Regarding the situation, the spokesperson stressed the need to prevent the creation of unlawful and abhorrent images on Grok and vowed to prioritize measures to achieve that goal.
In related developments, the Labour Party is contemplating discontinuing its use of X following condemnation from the Prime Minister for the platform’s reprehensible behavior. Party chairwoman Anna Turley disclosed ongoing discussions on the matter, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a safe environment.
Turley highlighted the urgency for X to rectify its actions, echoing the Prime Minister’s strong stance against the unacceptable behavior. She also shared personal reflections on the issue in recent months.
Turley mentioned that the Government is collaborating with the regulator Ofcom to address the distressing misuse of AI technology, particularly concerning the creation of sexualized images on Grok.
Ofcom recently engaged with Musk’s X and xAI over significant concerns regarding the generation of sexualized images of children on Grok. The regulator expressed awareness of features on Grok that produce undressed images of individuals and sexualized depictions of minors.
Following comments from Technology Secretary Liz Kendall urging prompt action, Downing Street reiterated its commitment to combatting the proliferation of offensive material online, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in eradicating such content.
Users on X reportedly prompted Grok to produce images of children in revealing attire. Grok’s X account acknowledged safety lapses and vowed to address them promptly, stressing the illegality of child sexual abuse material.
Musk later affirmed consequences for those creating illegal content using Grok. The platform assured that it takes concerns about deepfakes seriously and is actively enhancing safeguards to prevent harmful content.
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