With the year just kicking off, we have yet another controversy that revolves around the misuse of AI and individual privacy. This time the case involves X (formerly Twitter), which is facing widespread criticism for letting users create sexually explicit deepfake images. Now X has restricted image generation and editing on Grok AI to paid users only after the criticism became overwhelming. According to reports, the move follows mounting public outrage and alleged pressure from UK authorities demanding stronger controls.
Previously on Grok, users could digitally manipulate images, and these manipulations could be done in various forms, which include removing clothes and placing women in poses that can be interpreted as sexualised. The feature sparked protests online, with critics calling out the platform for enabling abuse and harassment through AI tools.
Free Users Lose Access On X
The Guardian has reported that currently most users on X are no longer able to generate or edit images using Grok and the feature has been restricted to paid subscribers only, whose identities and payment details are verified by the platform, retain access to these features.
However, the restriction applies only within X itself. Non-paying users can still access Grok’s image editing capabilities through its standalone app and website, highlighting that the limitation is platform-specific rather than a complete shutdown.
UK Regulators Turn Up The Heat
The BBC reports that the decision comes amid warnings of fines, regulatory action, and even potential bans against X in the UK. Government sources told the broadcaster that Ofcom is expected to use all available powers to address concerns around illegal AI-generated images.
Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom can reportedly seek court orders to restrict access to platforms or limit their ability to operate in the UK. The BBC said it had contacted the regulator for comment, but no response had been issued at the time of reporting.
Women Speak Out Against AI Image Abuse
Grok is generally free to use and can be tagged in posts or replies, making it easy for users to request AI-generated content publicly. However, the image-editing feature allowed requests that digitally removed clothing, a capability that several women said caused serious harm.
Some women affected by such edits told the BBC that they felt humiliated and dehumanised, adding to calls for tighter regulation of generative AI tools.
ALSO READ: Amazon Takes Alexa Plus AI Assistant Beyond Echo Devices, Web Version Now Available
Subscribers Now Hold The Keys
By Friday morning, the BBC observed that users attempting to edit images were being told that the feature was now restricted to subscribers and were prompted to sign up. It appeared that only accounts with a paid verification badge on X were able to successfully request image edits.
While X has not issued a detailed public explanation, the timing suggests the change is a direct response to regulatory scrutiny and growing demands for accountability around AI misuse.