UK and Australia Consider Ban on X Following Grok’s Deepfake Controversy

Concerns are escalating in both the United Kingdom and Australia regarding the potential for a complete ban on X (previously known as Twitter) in light of the explicit deepfake controversies surrounding the AI tool Grok.

Launched on November 3, 2023, by Elon Musk, Grok was initially designed to provide contextual insights for users navigating the social media realm. However, it has since advanced into generative technology, raising significant concerns over its applications.

Currently, Grok is infamous for enabling users to create explicit images with mere single-line prompts. This functionality allows for the disturbing depiction of minors in suggestive scenarios, as well as graphic representations of women in violent contexts, among others.

Governments Take Action: UK & Australia Consider a Ban on X

According to a report by the BBC, UK Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has voiced her support for the local Office of Communications (Ofcom).If Ofcom determines that a ban is necessary due to Grok’s apparent non-compliance with online safety regulations, they would receive full governmental backing to enforce such measures.

Grok’s capabilities have led to a rise in the generation of explicit content on X.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also expressed strong disapproval, condemning the tool as “disgraceful” and “disgusting.” Should Grok’s controversial image generation not be curtailed swiftly, the likelihood of a sweeping ban looms on the horizon, although no firm decision has been made yet. Ofcom is reportedly evaluating the situation and intends to provide an update within a few days.

In reaction to the UK’s scrutiny, Musk has suggested that the government is seeking “any excuse for censorship, ” countering the criticism of Grok’s functionality.

Meanwhile, in Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has deemed Grok’s image generation as “completely abhorrent, ” as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald on January 10, 2026. He remarked, “This is yet another instance of social media lacking social responsibility. Australians and global citizens deserve better.”

This perspective aligns with Australia’s recent national movement to enhance social media regulations, which includes restricting access to platforms for individuals under 16 years of age.

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