Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has launched a major GDPR investigation into X over allegations that its Grok AI chatbot generated and spread non-consensual sexualized images, including of children. The formal inquiry examines X‘s compliance with fundamental EU data protection laws. This action is part of a widening global regulatory crackdown, with similar probes now open across Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.
Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) has opened a large-scale inquiry into X Internet Unlimited Company over Grok‘s generation of non-consensual intimate images. The investigation will assess compliance with core GDPR obligations, including principles of lawful processing and privacy-by-design.
The watchdog is examining the “apparent creation, and publication on the X platform, of potentially harmful, non-consensual intimate and/or sexualised images… including children.” Deputy Commissioner Graham Doyle stated the DPC will examine XIUC’s compliance with “some of their fundamental obligations under the GDPR in relation to the matters at hand.”
This follows a report that Grok generated an estimated 23,338 sexualized images depicting children over an 11-day period. Researchers found about one-third of sampled images remained accessible on X despite platform policies.
In response, X restricted Grok’s image generation to paid subscribers and added technical barriers. The company also geoblocked the feature in jurisdictions where such content is illegal.
The Irish probe joins a significant global regulatory response. The European Commission opened a formal Digital Services Act investigation, while French authorities raided X’s Paris offices.
The UK’s Ofcom and Information Commissioner’s Office have opened separate investigations. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner noted complaints involving Grok have recently doubled.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a formal investigation into xAI and Grok. The probe focuses on the creation and spread of non-consensual sexually explicit AI images.
UNICEF has called AI sexual deepfakes a profound escalation of risks for children. The organization urged governments to criminalize AI-generated abuse material.
