EU launches probe into xAI over sexualized images

Source: Ars Technica

Background

X’s offices in Paris were raided by French and European investigators at the beginning of February as part of a wide‑ranging investigation into X’s algorithms and the spread of AI‑generated sexual‑abuse material. French prosecutors have summoned Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino, X’s former chief executive, for “voluntary interviews” in Paris in April.

Ongoing Investigations

• UK Information Commissioner’s Office – Launched a new investigation into X and xAI, citing “serious concerns” about Grok’s use of personal data and its potential to produce harmful sexualised image and video content.

• European Union – Already opened a formal investigation into xAI for Grok’s spread of sexualised images of women and children under the Digital Services Act, which requires platforms to mitigate illegal and harmful content.

• EU GDPR Probe – Announced on Monday, this probe will assess whether X breached the EU’s GDPR rules, which mandate that personal user data be processed only for specific lawful purposes, that privacy be considered during product development, and that risk reviews be conducted before launching high‑risk features.

Company Measures

Following pressure from governments worldwide—including threats of fines and bans in the EU, UK, and France—X implemented “technological measures” last month to limit Grok from generating certain explicit images. The company maintains that it removes child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and non‑consensual nudity material.

X’s Response

In response to the French raids, X posted that the allegations were “baseless” and that it “categorically denies any wrongdoing.” The company described the raid as an “abusive act of law‑enforcement theatre designed to achieve illegitimate political objectives,” adding that the investigation “distorts French law, circumvents due process, and endangers free speech.”

Current Situation

The latest investigation comes during a turbulent period for X, with dozens of staff departing the company last week, including two co‑founders. Musk told employees in an all‑hands meeting that he was restructuring the group after the merger with SpaceX.