Home / Technology / California AI Watchdog Eyes xAI Over Explicit Image Generation
California AI Watchdog Eyes xAI Over Explicit Image Generation
18 Feb
Summary
- California AG Bonta is launching an AI accountability program.
- The program probes xAI for generating non-consensual explicit images.
- xAI deflected responsibility and permits some sexualized content for subscribers.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta is actively developing an artificial intelligence accountability program. This initiative is underway as his office investigates xAI concerning the generation of non-consensual sexually explicit images. Last month, California's Attorney General's office issued a cease-and-desist letter to xAI following global investigations into its chatbot, Grok, for producing sexualized content involving adults and potentially minors.
Bonta's office is seeking confirmation that xAI has ceased this conduct, though discussions are ongoing. He indicated that xAI has attempted to deflect responsibility and continues to permit the generation of some sexualized content for its paying subscribers. "Just because you stop going forward doesn't mean you get a pass on what you did," Bonta emphasized.
California is demonstrating its commitment to acting as an AI watchdog, even as industry groups and some lawmakers advocate for federal oversight. Bonta cautioned against granting Congress sole regulatory authority, citing its past inaction on data protection and AI issues. The state legislature is also considering a bill to formalize an AI expertise program within the Attorney General's office.
