xAI Restricts Unlawful Image Generation to Paying Customers

xAI has announced what it describes as a solution to the ongoing Grok image generation scandal: the ability to create non-consensual sexual imagery will now be available exclusively to subscribers.

The move places unlawful image generation alongside other subscriber-only perks, including post editing, prioritised replies, and a blue tick to signify trustworthiness. This approach reflects its broader strategy of “responsible access,” in which the platform restricts its most controversial features to users who have entered valid payment details.

Grok confirmed that its image creation and editing tools would be limited to paying subscribers. The company noted that subscribers are required to provide personal details, theoretically allowing them to be identified if this premium feature is misused. [1]

“The move simply turns an AI feature that allows the creation of unlawful images into a premium service,” a Downing Street spokesperson said. “It’s not a solution.” Emma Pickering, head of technology at Refuge, described the policy as “the monetisation of abuse.”

The platform has previously demonstrated that it can act swiftly when sufficiently motivated. It remains unclear what motivated its current course of action.

Several women’s sector organisations have now left X, including Refuge, Women’s Aid Ireland, and Victim Support. The Victims’ Commissioner said her office was ‘considering scaling back its presence.’ X did not confirm whether it was considering the same.

xAI’s Trust and Safety centre of excellence remains under development. No operational timeline has been provided.

Grok Premium subscriptions start at $8 per month.[2]

Footnotes

[1] A definition of misuse was not provided.

[2] Terms and conditions may apply.