Grok AI Controversy: X Admits Fault in Grok AI Controversy, Deletes Over 600 Accounts, Pledges Compliance with Indian Laws

Social media platform X has acknowledged its error in the controversy surrounding obscene content generated by its AI tool, Grok. The company has assured the Indian government of its commitment to operate in accordance with Indian laws and to bolster its systems to prevent such incidents in the future. Following the dispute, X has removed over 600 accounts from its platform and blocked approximately 3,500 objectionable posts. This move comes amidst growing concerns over online obscenity and the targeting of women through digital platforms.

The Grok AI Controversy Unfolds

The Indian government recently raised serious concerns regarding the spread of obscene and objectionable content through X's AI tool, Grok. Government agencies highlighted that Grok was being misused not only for creating fake profiles but also for harassing and targeting women online. This misuse involved image editing, synthetic content generation, and the exploitation of women's photos and videos through malicious prompts, thereby endangering their privacy and safety. In response to these grave issues, the government issued a stern warning to X and demanded a detailed report on the actions taken.

Swift Action Taken by X

According to government sources, X has blocked approximately 3,500 objectionable posts related to Grok AI in this matter. Concurrently, over 600 accounts found to be actively involved in spreading obscene or illegal content have been permanently removed from the platform. X has also informed the Indian government that it will further strengthen its systems and monitoring processes to prevent such content from proliferating in the future. The company claims that objectionable content will now be identified and. Removed more rapidly to maintain a safe environment on the platform.

Government's Firm Stance and Timeline

The government adopted a firm stance from the outset of this issue. On January 2, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) explicitly ordered X to immediately remove all obscene, vulgar, and illegal content associated with Grok, while the ministry warned that failure to comply would result in strict action under the Information Technology (IT) Act and other relevant laws. X was given 72 hours to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR), outlining both technical and administrative measures. On January 8, X submitted its report, which the government deemed detailed but insufficient. Consequently, X was granted an additional 72 hours to refine its report.

Expected Changes in Content Moderation

According to government sources, X has now assured that it will tighten its content moderation system under Indian regulations. The company stated that objectionable content, users posting such content,. And related accounts will be acted upon much faster than before. Plus, improved systems for mandatory reporting and monitoring will be established to effectively curb the dissemination of illegal and obscene material on the platform. This step represents a significant effort towards ensuring online safety and compliance.

Initial Response Deemed Inadequate

Previously, the government had sought detailed information from X regarding specific actions taken on obscene content related to Grok AI and measures to prevent future recurrence, as the platform's initial response was found to be inadequate. In its response to the first notice, X had outlined its. Strict content removal policies concerning misleading posts and non-consensual sexually explicit images. However, while the response was lengthy and detailed, it lacked crucial information, including specific actions taken on the Grok AI obscene content issue and the precise preventive measures to be adopted in the future.

X's Strong Warning on Illegal Content

On January 2, the Ministry of Information Technology issued a stern warning to X regarding obscene and sexually explicit content being generated through the misuse of AI-based services like Grok and other tools. The social media platform's 'Safety' handle stated last Sunday that it takes action against illegal content on its platform, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). This includes removing such content, permanently suspending accounts, and cooperating with local governments and law enforcement agencies as required, while x reiterated Elon Musk's stance on illegal content, stating, "Anyone using Grok or having illegal content generated by it will face the same consequences as uploading illegal content. " This sends a clear message that any form of illegal activity won't be tolerated on the platform.