Spain has opened a probe into Meta, X and TikTok over allegations that the platforms are being used to spread AI-generated child sexual abuse content.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the move on Tuesday, saying prosecutors have been instructed to investigate the companies over the creation and distribution of illegal material involving minors.
“These platforms are undermining the mental health, dignity, and rights of our children,” Sánchez wrote on X.
“The state cannot allow this. The impunity of these giants must end.”
The Spanish government said the investigation is based on an official report which examined the possible criminal liability linked to deepfakes and manipulated sexual content involving children.
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Authorities warned that AI tools, combined with the wide reach of social media, make it easier for such content to be produced and shared quickly.
The European Commission said it supports stronger action against child abuse material online.
“We work closely with member states to fight online child pornography. This has no place in Europe and will not be tolerated,” a commission spokesperson said.
“If a government, if a national member state, goes against individuals at national level who have sold such type of products in the EU or have published such type of content, they can do it, because we don’t hold people accountable. We hold platforms accountable,” the spokesperson added.