Elon Musk warns of legal action over illegal Grok AI content on X
Elon Musk has issued a stern warning to X, formerly Twitter, users that anyone using the platform’s Grok AI to generate illegal content will face severe legal consequences as if they uploaded the material themselves.
The warning follows the introduction of a new “Edit Image” feature on X, powered by the Grok AI system. The tool allows users to modify existing images, a move that has sparked intense controversy across the social media landscape.
Artists and creators have led the backlash, with many announcing they will leave the platform. Their primary concern is that their intellectual property and original artworks are being repurposed by AI without consent or compensation.
However, the controversy extends beyond copyright issues. The tool has been used to generate sexually suggestive imagery of celebrities and high-profile figures. Musk himself has been targeted, with AI-altered photos appearing of him in a bikini.
The situation escalated significantly after reports emerged of users utilizing the AI to create provocative and inappropriate images of minors. These incidents have triggered a wave of public condemnation and put intense pressure on Musk to address safety loopholes. (continues below)
Photo: x.com/
In a post on X, Musk clarified that the platform’s rules regarding illegal content apply to AI-generated media just as strictly as they do to traditional uploads. He emphasized that the warning was “not a joke”.
“Anyone using Grok to create illegal content will face the same legal consequences as someone who uploads illegal content,” Musk said, technology did not provide a shield for illicit activity.
The X Safety account reinforced this stance in a separate statement. The team confirmed they are taking “proactive measures” to identify and remove prohibited material, specifically targeting content involving the exploitation of minors.
According to the Safety team, the platform’s enforcement strategy includes the immediate removal of violating content and the permanent suspension of accounts found to be in breach of these policies.
Photo: x.com/
Furthermore, X indicated a willingness to work with external authorities. The platform stated it would cooperate with governments and regulatory bodies to ensure that local and international laws are strictly enforced.
The move marks a pivotal moment for X as it attempts to balance its commitment to “free speech” with the growing ethical and legal challenges posed by generative AI.
Source – Bangkok News
