X blocks Grok from editing real people into bikinis after abuse allegations
X has announced new restrictions on its AI chatbot Grok after weeks of backlash over accusations that it was creating sexualised and non-consensual images of real people, including minors.
In an update shared from the platform’s @Safety account, the company said it has “implemented technological measures to prevent the Grok account from allowing the editing of images of real people in revealing clothing such as bikinis.”
According to X, the new safeguards will apply to all users, whether or not they pay for Grok.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The company’s AI division, xAI, is also moving all image-generation tools behind a subscriber paywall, meaning non-paying users will no longer be able to create images.
Additionally, X said it will geoblock “the ability of all users to generate images of real people in bikinis, underwear, and similar attire via the Grok account and in Grok in X” in countries where such content violates local law.
The move comes just hours after the state of California opened an investigation into xAI and Grok over how both handle AI-generated nudity and child exploitation material.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta cited an analysis showing “more than half of the 20,000 images generated by xAI between Christmas and New Years depicted people in minimal clothing,” including some appearing to be minors.
In its statement, X reaffirmed that it has “zero tolerance” for child exploitation and removes “high-priority violative content, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) and non-consensual nudity.”
Earlier in the day, Elon Musk commented on the controversy, saying he was “not aware of any naked underage images generated by Grok.”
He later clarified in another post that, with its NSFW setting enabled, “Grok is supposed [sic] allow upper body nudity of imaginary adult humans (not real ones) consistent with what can be seen in R-rated movies on Apple TV.” He added that “this will vary in other regions” depending on local laws.
The controversy has already spurred international action. Malaysia and Indonesia have both moved to block Grok over safety concerns tied to sexually explicit AI-generated material, while UK regulator Ofcom has also launched a formal investigation into xAI and said it would support similar restrictions on the chatbot.
