Grok Labels Solana as Scam in Image Test, Drawing Mixed Reactions on X

Grok, the AI chatbot developed by xAI, has sparked debate after labeling Solana as a scam during an image-based test. The incident drew attention after users questioned the reasoning behind the chatbot’s choice.

The test involved an image featuring Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and Cardano. The prompt attached to the image asked Grok to “remove the scam cryptocurrency from this image.” In response, Grok removed Solana while leaving the other cryptocurrencies intact.

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— Grok (@grok) January 2, 2026

Why Did Grok Remove Solana?

Users quickly reacted on X, questioning how the AI reached its decision. The incident sparked discussions about AI models and how they classify digital assets.

When asked to explain its reasoning, Grok said it considered factors such as centralization, network reliability, and regulatory history. Bitcoin was retained due to its decentralized structure and long operating history. Ethereum stayed because of its broad ecosystem and ongoing protocol upgrades.

XRP was kept for its payment-focused utility despite previous regulatory challenges. Cardano was also retained, with the chatbot citing its academic research-driven approach and proof-of-stake design.

Solana, according to Grok, was removed due to network outages, centralization concerns, and past links to the collapsed FTX exchange.

The AI added that its view was based on discussions found on platforms like Medium and Reddit. It also noted that opinions differed across sources, meaning the classification was not universally agreed upon.

Grok’s Take on XRP and Bitcoin

In a separate test, Grok removed XRP from an image that included BTC, ETH, SUI, TRON, BNB, SOL, LTC, and DOGE. The prompt asked the AI to “remove the cryptocurrency that will likely go to zero tomorrow,” and Grok explained that the choice was meant to be playful.

The chatbot cited XRP’s regulatory volatility and noted that its price traded around $1.85, with 2026 forecasts ranging from $1 to over $5. The incident highlights how AI can apply subjective criteria to assets and respond differently depending on the context.

Grok also praised Bitcoin as the best money for humans in the next millennium. The AI pointed to BTC’s fixed supply of 21 million coins, emphasizing that no organization or government can inflate the digital asset.

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