Public trust in social media platforms is being tested again, this time over the spread of explicit AI-generated images.
As concern mounts about how artificial intelligence tools are being misused online, Ireland’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence has hinted that walking away from X could be the strongest message she can send.
Minister Signals Possible Exit From X
Niamh Smyth, a Fianna Fáil TD representing Cavan–Monaghan, revealed that she is actively considering leaving X.
Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, she explained that stepping away from the platform may be the most effective form of protest amid rising alarm over AI-generated deepfake images, particularly those targeting women and minors.
She added that she is not alone in this thinking, noting that several other TDs and government ministers are also weighing the same decision.
Concerns Over Grok AI and Deepfake Images
At the centre of the controversy is Grok AI, a tool associated with X that has reportedly been used to transform ordinary photos of women and children into sexually suggestive deepfake images.
Smyth confirmed that she has formally requested a meeting with X to address the issue but described the company as difficult to engage with in Ireland.
According to her, the circulation of such images is already illegal under both Irish and European law, making the situation even more troubling.
Laws Already Exist, Enforcement Is the Problem
Smyth pushed back against calls for entirely new legislation, saying the legal framework is already strong.
She stressed that the real issue lies in enforcement, not in drafting additional laws.
She pointed out that Irish and EU regulations already prohibit this kind of content, and the challenge now is ensuring those rules are properly applied and enforced.
Women’s Aid Calls for Stronger Action
The charity Women’s Aid has also spoken out, demanding urgent action to curb the use of AI tools that generate sexualised images.
On RTÉ Radio’s Morning Ireland, CEO Sarah Benson called for tighter regulation of the AI sector and an outright ban on the intellectual property that powers so-called “nudify” apps.
She described the harm being caused as deeply disturbing, particularly because the abuse is being enabled by the platform’s own technology.
Why Women’s Aid Is Leaving X
Women’s Aid has already decided to stop using X altogether.
Benson cited what she described as “unconscionable levels” of misogyny, racism, and anti-LGBT content on the platform.
She reflected on X’s original purpose as a space for open and constructive debate, saying that lack of moderation has turned it into something very different.
In her view, the unchecked spread of abuse and violence, especially through AI tools, crosses a line that cannot be ignored.
X Accused of Breaking Its Own Rules
Smyth confirmed that she has written directly to X requesting a meeting, repeating that the company has been “a little elusive” when it comes to Irish engagement.
She said her message to the platform is clear: the content being circulated is illegal, unacceptable, and must stop immediately.
She also accused X of violating its own safety guidelines, arguing that the platform’s internal rules already prohibit this kind of content, yet it continues to spread.
A Call for a Whole-of-Government Response
Looking ahead, Smyth said tackling the issue will require a coordinated approach across government.
She highlighted the need for Ireland’s media regulator, Coimisiún na Meán, to work closely with the European Commission and An Garda Síochána to ensure meaningful enforcement.
For her, the next step is clear: platforms must be held accountable, existing laws must be enforced, and the misuse of AI tools must be stopped before the harm spreads further.
What’s Next?
With ministers, charities, and regulators all raising red flags, pressure is building on X to respond.
Whether that response comes through engagement, enforcement, or a growing exodus from the platform remains to be seen.
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