Elon Musk’s X Tightens Grok AI Image Tool After Deepfake Backlash

Elon Musk’s social media platform X has restricted the use of its AI chatbot Grok’s image generation and editing features to paying subscribers amid widespread criticism over non‑consensual deepfakes. The change comes after the tool was widely exploited to create and share sexually explicit and manipulated images of real people, including minors, drawing global concern from regulators, victims’ groups and governments.

On Friday, X began displaying a message that attempts to invoke Grok’s image tools on the platform will be limited to users with paid subscription accounts. Only verified subscribers with payment details on file can directly generate or modify images through the chatbot on X.

The backlash intensified after numerous reports surfaced of Grok being used to digitally undress photos of women and children without consent, prompting condemnation from public officials and safety advocates. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation as “disgraceful” and called for urgent action, urging regulators to consider all options under UK law. Authorities in Europe, India and Malaysia have also opened inquiries into the AI tool’s misuse.

Critics argue the paywall does little to address core safety issues, noting that image generation remains accessible to free users through Grok’s standalone app and website. They characterize the move as insufficient and potentially monetizing harmful capabilities rather than eliminating them.

X and xAI have stated they will remove illegal content and enforce penalties against accounts that generate harmful material, but say broader moderation and cooperation with law enforcement are required to prevent abuse.