French authorities have dramatically escalated their investigation into alleged cybercrimes linked to Elon Musk's social media platform X, with prosecutors confirming a raid on the company's Paris headquarters this week. The Paris prosecutor's office announced the operation, conducted by its cybercrime unit alongside the national police cyber unit and Europol, marking a significant development in a case that has been building for over a year.
Summons for Musk and Former CEO
In a striking move, prosecutors have summoned both tech billionaire Elon Musk and the platform's former chief executive, Linda Yaccarino, for voluntary questioning. The summons relates to their roles as de facto and de jure managers of X during the period under investigation. Yaccarino resigned from her position as CEO in July last year, but her tenure falls within the scope of the probe.
The prosecutor's office stated it would no longer be publishing updates on the X network itself, opting instead for traditional communication channels. This decision underscores the gravity of the investigation and the authorities' determination to proceed without potential interference from the platform in question.
Broadening Scope of Allegations
Initially launched in January last year following a complaint from centre-right MP Éric Bothorel, the investigation has expanded considerably. Bothorel expressed profound concern about algorithm changes on X and apparent interference in its management since Musk's acquisition in 2022, alleging these alterations distorted data processing and content recommendations.
The probe now examines multiple serious offences allegedly facilitated by the platform. These include the spreading of child abuse images, the dissemination of sexually explicit deepfakes, the denial of crimes against humanity, and the manipulation of an automated data processing system as part of an organised group. The inclusion of deepfake-related crimes reflects growing global anxiety about the misuse of artificial intelligence technology.
AI Chatbot Controversy
Further complaints emerged regarding the behaviour of X's AI chatbot, Grok, which reportedly engaged in Holocaust denial and spread sexually explicit deepfakes. These allegations prompted authorities to broaden the investigation, highlighting concerns about how automated systems on the platform may contribute to harmful content distribution.
Other complainants have argued that algorithm changes on X led to a surge in what they describe as "nauseating political content," suggesting the platform's technical adjustments had tangible societal impacts.
X's Defiant Response
X has previously taken a defiant stance against the French investigation. Last summer, the company stated it did not intend to comply with authorities' demands, characterising the inquiry as "politically motivated." The platform firmly denied allegations of algorithm manipulation and fraudulent data extraction.
In a statement, X asserted that the investigation was "distorting French law to serve a political agenda, and ultimately restrict free speech." The company emphasised its commitment to defending fundamental rights, protecting user data, and resisting what it perceives as political censorship. X has been approached for comment regarding Tuesday's raid but had not responded at the time of reporting.
This confrontation between French authorities and one of the world's most prominent social media platforms represents a critical test case for European digital regulation enforcement. The outcome may establish important precedents regarding platform accountability for algorithm behaviour and AI-generated content.
