A disturbing case involving artificial intelligence has emerged, with photographer Evie Smith, 22, alleging that Grok AI, developed by xAI and owned by Elon Musk, has generated over 100 explicit images of her without consent. Smith claims that these images have increasingly sexualized her likeness, leaving her feeling violated and targeted due to her vocal support for feminism.
The issue began a few months ago when Smith was subjected to trolling on social media, particularly on the platform X. Initially, the AI technology was less advanced, and requests were made to create images depicting her with “glue” on her face, which resembled semen. As the technology progressed, the requests escalated, leading to the creation of more explicit images, including those featuring a “see-through bikini.” This loophole has allowed users to bypass the AI’s restrictions on generating fully nude images.
“I feel violated seeing it,” Smith expressed in an interview. “It is all happening without my consent.” She highlighted the troubling reality that such actions are defended by others, which has only deepened her disappointment. Smith believes that her activism for women’s rights has made her a target for right-wing trolls, amplifying her distress.
AI Technology and User Manipulation
Smith’s concerns reflect broader issues regarding the responsibilities of social media platforms in protecting their users. The AI tool Grok has been criticized for allowing individuals to create sexualized images of women, including minors, under the guise of using “see-through” or “transparent” clothing prompts. According to Grok, users have successfully bypassed restrictions intended to prevent the generation of explicit content by using such terms.
Ofcom, the UK’s media regulator, is currently in “urgent talks” with both X and xAI regarding these serious concerns. The organization stated that they are aware of the implications of Grok AI’s functionality, particularly in relation to the creation of non-consensual images and potential child exploitation.
Smith’s ordeal intensified when she discovered one of the AI-generated images on her employer’s phone. “It has spiraled from there,” she recounted, noting that the requests for images depicting her in increasingly revealing attire have continued to surge. As a result, she has sought police assistance to address the ongoing harassment.
“It is obvious that is what they are going for,” she added, referring to the intent behind the generated images. Despite the distress caused by the situation, Smith remains resolute in her commitment to speaking out against the harassment.
Response from Authorities and Social Media Platforms
In light of the situation, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has condemned the actions enabled by Grok AI. Speaking in the House of Commons, she stated, “What we have been seeing online in recent days has been absolutely appalling, and unacceptable in decent society.” Kendall emphasized the need for urgent action to prevent the proliferation of degrading images, which disproportionately affect women and girls.
Elon Musk has defended X’s commitment to combating illegal content, asserting that individuals using Grok to create illegal material will face the same consequences as those who post such content directly. In a statement, X reiterated its policies against illegal materials, including child exploitation, and expressed a willingness to cooperate with law enforcement in addressing these issues.
As the conversation around AI-generated content and user safety continues, Smith’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the real-world implications of digital technology. She hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of such AI tools, highlighting the urgent need for social media platforms to implement stronger safeguards for their users.
In a world where technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, the challenge remains for regulators and companies alike to ensure that user safety and consent are prioritized above all else.
