X, a company operated by Elon Musk, has yielded to global criticism and will cease its Grok image tool from manipulating photos of actual individuals dressed in scanty attire.
As of last night, X announced the implementation of technological safeguards to block the Grok platform from modifying images featuring real individuals in skimpy outfits like bikinis.
“These measures will affect every user, encompassing those with paid subscriptions,” the company stated.
The decision is a response to concerns raised by California’s leading prosecutor about the ongoing investigations into the proliferation of sexualized AI-generated deepfakes, including those of minors. Investigations are also underway in France and the UK, focusing on the Grok tool.
Initially, in reaction to the outcry, X had modified the Grok Imagine tool to limit its controversial ‘undress’ feature to only premium subscribers. However, this limitation has now been extended to all users. “Additionally, the capability to create and alter images through the Grok account on the X platform is now restricted to paid subscribers,” the company added. “This introduces an additional safeguard by ensuring that those who seek to misuse the Grok service to break the law or violate our policies can be identified and held responsible.”
Furthermore, X has implemented geoblocks to prevent the generation of images depicting real individuals in swimwear, lingerie, or similar garments through the Grok service in areas where such actions are deemed illegal.
In the UK, the Grok tool has faced severe criticism, including from Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The communications regulator Ofcom is currently evaluating whether X has violated regulations under the new Online Safety Act. Should X be found in breach, Ofcom possesses the authority to impose a fine amounting to up to 10% of X’s global revenue or £18 million ($24.2 million), whichever is higher.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
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