Spain has launched a criminal investigation into major social media platforms over allegations they are spreading AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that prosecutors have been instructed to examine whether X Meta and TikTok may have committed crimes through the creation or distribution of illegal content using artificial intelligence tools.
Sánchez said the platforms are undermining the mental health dignity and rights of children adding that the state cannot allow what he described as impunity by powerful tech giants.
The move comes amid a broader European crackdown on big technology companies. Regulators across the region are increasing scrutiny over issues ranging from anti-competitive practices to addictive platform design and harmful online content.
Spain is not alone. Authorities in multiple countries are investigating AI-generated sexually explicit material linked to Grok the chatbot developed by xAI and integrated into X. Governments have demanded stronger safeguards to prevent the production of illegal and abusive imagery.
Earlier this month Sánchez proposed new measures to curb online abuse including a potential ban on social media access for children under 16.
In a related development French police recently raided offices of X as part of a widening probe while Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has opened a formal investigation into Grok over concerns about personal data processing and the possible creation of harmful sexualised images involving minors.
The investigations signal escalating pressure on social media companies as European governments move to tighten oversight of artificial intelligence and online safety.
