Spain investigates X, Meta, and TikTok for AI content about child abuse

The Spanish government has ordered prosecutors to investigate the platforms X, Meta, and TikTok on suspicion that they are spreading child sexual abuse material created using artificial intelligence.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the situation as a serious threat to the mental health, dignity, and rights of minors. According to him, the state cannot tolerate the impunity of tech giants, which, according to the government, do not take sufficient responsibility for the content published on their networks.

The investigation comes shortly after Sánchez presented a broader package of measures to protect children online. The proposals also include a ban on the use of social networks for people under the age of 16.

Madrid wants to tighten oversight of digital platforms and send a signal that protecting children will be a priority, even at the cost of conflict with global companies.

(reuters, pir)