Khaberni - Following a widespread outcry sparked by the chat robot "Grok" after circulating pornographic images generated by artificial intelligence, the European Union intensified its efforts to enhance internet protection, amid fears of expanding digital violations and the inadequacy of current regulatory frameworks to keep up with the rapid development of modern technologies.
Brussels is considering classifying sexually explicit deepfake activities as prohibited practices under the Artificial Intelligence Act, following the uproar caused by non-consensual sexual images, some involving minors, created via "Grok" integrated into the "X" platform.
European Action Against "Grok"
The European movement came after the company developing "Grok" imposed restrictions on sexual content in mid-January, following sharp criticisms regarding the use of the tool in digital stripping without the consent of the image owners, and European officials confirmed that these practices are illegal and constitute a blatant violation of human dignity.
The European Commission announced that it is reviewing the measures taken by the platform, hinting at using the full authority of the Digital Services Act if they prove insufficient, which includes imposing hefty fines or taking strict operational measures.
In the same context, the Commission emphasized that the Artificial Intelligence Act, which was approved in 2024, gives the Union additional tools to ban uses classified as unacceptable risks, especially those related to non-consensual pornography and child exploitation.
Despite escalating criticism, a large number of European officials continue to use the "X" platform, justifying it by its broad user base compared to alternatives, which raises controversy regarding the effectiveness of regulatory pressure in the context of continued reliance on the platform.
This controversy is part of a lengthy legal route taken by the European Union to protect users, especially minors, on the internet, through a suite of laws that includes monitoring illegal content, enhancing transparency, and discussing the imposition of age restrictions on the use of social media.
These efforts face multiple challenges, including implementation difficulties, rapid technological innovation, and divisions over the balance between privacy and security, placing the European Union in a critical test in its pursuit of a safer digital space.
