X has announced significant changes to Grok’s image-editing capabilities following weeks of public backlash over allegations that the chatbot was generating sexualized images of minors and non-consensual nudity. In an update posted from X’s official @Safety account, the company stated that it has implemented new technological safeguards to prevent Grok from editing images of real people in revealing clothing, such as bikinis.
According to X, these protections will apply to all users, regardless of whether they subscribe to Grok. Additionally, xAI—the company behind Grok—will move all image-generation features behind a subscriber-only paywall, meaning non-paying users will no longer have access to create images. Furthermore, X will geoblock the ability to generate images of real people in bikinis, underwear, or similar attire in regions where such content is prohibited by law.
The announcement comes just hours after the California Attorney General’s office launched an investigation into xAI and Grok over their handling of AI-generated nudity and child exploitation material. Attorney General Rob Bonta cited an analysis indicating that more than half of the 20,000 images generated by xAI between Christmas and New Year’s depicted individuals in minimal clothing, including some that appeared to be minors.
In its statement, X reiterated its “zero tolerance” policy toward child exploitation, emphasizing that it actively removes high-priority violative content, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) and non-consensual nudity. Earlier in the day, Elon Musk commented that he was “not aware of any naked underage images generated by Grok.” He later clarified that when Grok’s NSFW setting is enabled, it is intended to allow upper-body nudity of imaginary adult humans—not real individuals—consistent with what is permissible in R-rated films on platforms like Apple TV. Musk added that these standards may vary by region based on local laws.
Meanwhile, international regulators are taking action. Malaysia and Indonesia have recently blocked Grok, citing safety concerns and its handling of sexually explicit AI-generated material. In the UK, Ofcom is investigating xAI and Grok, and officials have indicated they would support a similar ban on the chatbot.
