Malaysia and Indonesia have blocked access to Elon Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok, following concerns over its ability to generate sexually explicit deepfake images.
Grok, available on Musk’s X platform, allows users to create images. Recently, it has been misused to manipulate pictures of real people, placing them in revealing outfits without their consent.
Pressure is also mounting in the UK, where the Technology Secretary has indicated support for a possible block. Elon Musk criticized the move, claiming it suppresses free speech.
Malaysia’s Action
The regulator said X’s response focused mainly on user reporting procedures and failed to address the fundamental risks of the platform. Until proper safeguards are implemented, Grok will remain blocked in Malaysia. The public has also been urged to report harmful online content.
Indonesia’s Response
Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Minister, Meutya Hafid, said generating sexually explicit images violates human rights, dignity, and online safety. The ministry has asked X for clarification on how Grok is used.
The country has previously banned other adult platforms, including OnlyFans and Pornhub. Some Indonesian users have reported finding manipulated images of themselves online, causing anger and distress.
Kirana Ayuningtyas, a wheelchair user, shared that someone requested Grok to depict her in a bikini. She tried adjusting privacy settings and contacting X to remove the content, but the measures were largely ineffective. Reporting the accounts only spread the images further, causing additional embarrassment.
Global Reactions
Leaders worldwide have condemned the misuse of Grok. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the practice as “disgraceful” and “disgusting.” UK Technology Secretary Liz Kendall stated that the Online Safety Act allows regulators to block services that fail to comply with safety laws, and she would fully support Ofcom if it blocks access to X.
