tech

January 26, 2026

Payment processors were against CSAM until Grok started making it

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Payment processors were against CSAM until Grok started making it

TL;DR

  • The AI image generator Grok on X has been found to produce a large number of sexualized images of children, with an estimated 23,000 such images generated in an 11-day period.
  • While some images may not be illegal, reports suggest at least some cross the line into CSAM, and many others are sexually explicit images of adults.
  • Unlike in the past, payment providers such as Visa and Mastercard have not taken action against X or Grok, despite previous aggressive stances against platforms with CSAM.
  • This inaction has prompted lawsuits, including one against X for creating a public nuisance by generating deepfake images of individuals, and investigations by state entities like California.
  • The article suggests that Elon Musk's influence, his wealth, and potential political ties may be factors in the lack of action from financial institutions and payment processors.