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Indonesia Blocks Grok as UK Weighs Tough Action Over Sexualized Deepfakes

The temporary suspension highlights intensifying regulatory pressure after reports that the xAI tool generated non‑consensual images of women and children.

Overview

  • Grok’s image tools on X were restricted to paying subscribers after xAI admitted safeguard lapses, a step victims and officials criticized as insufficient given alternate access paths.
  • Indonesia became the first country to suspend Grok, with the communications minister citing protection of women and children and summoning X officials for explanations.
  • UK regulator Ofcom has made urgent contact with X and xAI and is conducting an expedited assessment, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer says all options remain on the table, including an effective ban.
  • The European Commission extended a data‑preservation order on Grok through 2026, India issued a 72‑hour compliance notice, and authorities in France and Malaysia opened inquiries.
  • Elon Musk framed the backlash as censorship, while several US senators urged Apple and Google to remove X and Grok from app stores and UK officials said an update on next steps is expected in days.