Spain Investigates Grok and Major Platforms as AI Child Abuse Concerns Escalate Across Europe

Spain has ordered prosecutors to investigate X, Meta, TikTok, and Grok over alleged AI-generated child sexual abuse material. The move follows mounting global scrutiny and comes as the European Commission already probes platforms under the Digital Services Act.

Spain has launched a criminal investigation into major social media platforms over the alleged spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse content. The announcement came from Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who confirmed prosecutors will examine potential criminal liability.

Broader crackdown on harmful AI content

According to Reuters, the investigation targets X, Meta, and TikTok over claims that their algorithms may amplify or shelter illegal content involving minors.

Spanish authorities based the move on a technical report prepared by three ministries. Officials warned that children’s safety, dignity, privacy, and mental health face serious risks if AI-generated abuse material spreads unchecked.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that platforms may be committing crimes through the creation and dissemination of AI-generated child pornography. Spain’s Justice Ministry will now formally request prosecutors to assess possible criminal responsibility.

Ireland probes Grok over data and harmful outputs

Separately, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has opened an investigation into xAI and its Grok chatbot. The probe focuses on personal data processing and the potential generation of harmful sexualized images or videos involving children.

Ireland’s DPC acts as the lead EU regulator for X, as its European operations are headquartered in the country. The inquiry reflects increasing EU-level pressure on AI tools integrated into large social platforms.

The European Commission is already investigating Meta, TikTok, and Grok under the Digital Services Act, expanding scrutiny beyond Spain’s national action.

Rising global pressure on AI platforms

Spain cited data suggesting that one in five young people, mostly girls, reported that AI-generated fake nude images were created and shared while they were minors. Lawmakers argue that algorithmic systems must not amplify criminal material or enable exploitation through automated tools.

The investigation forms part of a broader regulatory push against harmful AI use. Spain is also considering additional measures, including a proposed ban on social media access for users under 16.

In previous steps, Spain’s parliament announced plans to investigate Meta over potential privacy violations. With prosecutors now involved, the country signals a tougher enforcement stance toward both AI developers and platform operators.

Grok has faced mounting controversy in recent months, including service blocks in Malaysia and Indonesia over misuse concerns. Its alleged abuse also pushed the UK to introduce new legislation targeting deepfakes.

Now, with Spain and Ireland stepping in, regulatory pressure appears to be expanding, signaling that scrutiny of AI platforms and their safeguards is only intensifying worldwide.