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xAI Limits Grok Image Tool to Paying Users as EU Orders Data Preservation

Regulators say a paywall fails to stop illegal deepfakes and demand safeguards that prevent their creation.

Overview

  • xAI restricted Grok’s image generation and editing to subscribers after users produced non‑consensual sexualized deepfakes of women and minors.
  • The European Commission issued a preservation order requiring X to keep all internal Grok documents and data through the end of 2026 under its DSA probe.
  • French prosecutors in Paris expanded a judicial investigation into the creation and dissemination of these images under national criminal law.
  • EU officials called the restriction insufficient, and the UK government condemned turning the feature into a premium service while backing possible Ofcom enforcement.
  • Proponents say limiting access to paid accounts aids traceability via payment details, but NGO findings of large‑scale abuse highlight ongoing risks.