MADRID, Feb 17 (GeokHub) — Spain has instructed state prosecutors to open an investigation into major social media platforms X, Meta and TikTok over allegations that their systems may have enabled the spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the move as part of a broader push to strengthen oversight of digital platforms and protect minors from online harm. The action follows a technical review conducted by multiple Spanish ministries, according to government officials.
Authorities say the probe aims to determine whether the platforms’ algorithms may have facilitated or failed to prevent the circulation of illegal and harmful material involving minors.
Government’s Position
Government spokesperson Elma Saiz stated that Spain “cannot allow algorithms to amplify or shelter” crimes that endanger children’s safety, privacy and dignity. The Justice Ministry has been directed to assess whether criminal violations may have occurred through the creation or distribution of unlawful content using artificial intelligence tools.
The move marks the first step in a package of new social media regulations unveiled earlier this month. Spain has also proposed additional measures to strengthen child protection online, including potential age-based restrictions on social media access.
Platform Responses
TikTok described child sexual abuse material as “abhorrent and categorically prohibited,” adding that it maintains robust systems to detect and prevent abuse. The company said it continues investing in advanced technology to combat harmful content.
X and Meta did not immediately issue public statements following the announcement.
Wider European Scrutiny
Spain’s action comes amid increasing regulatory pressure across Europe. The European Union is intensifying enforcement under the Digital Services Act, targeting major technology platforms over illegal and harmful content.
Separately, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has opened a formal investigation into the AI chatbot Grok developed by xAI, examining concerns over personal data processing and the potential generation of harmful sexualized imagery. Ireland serves as the lead EU regulator for X due to the company’s European headquarters being based there.
