A researcher with the handle “single mode” has demonstrated how client-side code manipulation can bypass access controls and gain unauthorized access to Grok-3, an AI model integrated into Elon Musk’s X platform.
The exploit involves running a custom JavaScript snippet in the browser’s developer console before initiating a new chat session.
The script modifies the browser’s window object to search for references to “grok-2a,” a lower-tier AI model, and replaces them with “grok-3,” effectively tricking the system into granting access to the more advanced AI model.
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The JavaScript code leverages weak client-side security mechanisms. By targeting how the platform assigns AI model identifiers, the script circumvents intended restrictions that should have been enforced server-side.
Once the script is executed, subsequent API requests from the user’s browser include “grok-3” as the model identifier, enabling access to its exclusive features.
This attack exposes a serious security flaw categorized under Broken Access Control, one of the most critical vulnerabilities in modern web applications.
Instead of enforcing access restrictions on the server where they are more secure the X platform relies on client-side controls, which are inherently easier to manipulate.
This approach leaves sensitive features like Grok-3 vulnerable to exploitation by anyone with basic technical knowledge and access to developer tools, according to Dark-Marc’s post.
As of now, there has been no official statement from X regarding this vulnerability.
Grok-3 is the latest AI model introduced by Elon Musk’s xAI, representing a major advancement in artificial intelligence. Released on February 17, 2025, Grok-3 is referred to as “the smartest AI on Earth.” It features enhanced reasoning, creativity, and computational capabilities that surpass those of its predecessor, Grok-2, as well as many of its competitors.
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