KEY POINTS
- Special investigators searched the Paris headquarters of X on Tuesday morning.
- Prosecutors summoned billionaire Elon Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino for questioning.
- The probe focuses on alleged algorithm manipulation and the spread of illegal AI content.
French law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at the Paris offices of X on Tuesday. The operation marks a major escalation in a year-long probe into the social media company. The Paris prosecutor’s cybercrime unit led the raid with support from Europol.
Investigators are examining how the platform handles illegal content and automated data systems. The inquiry began in January 2025 following a complaint from a French lawmaker. That official alleged the platform used biased algorithms to distort information.
The investigation recently expanded to cover more serious criminal allegations. Authorities are now looking into the circulation of child sexual abuse material on the site. They are also investigating the spread of sexually explicit deepfakes created by artificial intelligence.
Prosecutors highlighted specific concerns regarding the company’s AI chatbot known as Grok. Reports suggest the tool generated content related to Holocaust denial. Such speech is a criminal offense under French law.
In a rare move, the prosecutor’s office has officially summoned Elon Musk. Former chief executive Linda Yaccarino must also appear for voluntary interviews. These hearings are currently scheduled to take place in late April.
Authorities consider both individuals to be the primary managers during the period under investigation. Several other employees will also face questioning as witnesses. Investigators want to know if the company knowingly allowed illegal material to remain online.
In a symbolic gesture, the Paris prosecutor’s office announced it is leaving X. The department will now use other social media platforms for official communications. They cited the ongoing investigation as the reason for their departure.
The social media giant has previously called the investigation politically motivated. The company argued that such probes threaten the principle of free speech. However, French officials insist they are simply enforcing national safety and data laws.
This raid comes amid a broader European crackdown on tech platforms. Regulators across the continent are demanding more transparency regarding recommendation algorithms. Failure to comply with these laws can lead to massive fines.
The outcome of this investigation could have lasting effects on how X operates in Europe. If found liable, the company faces significant legal penalties and operational restrictions. For now, the focus remains on the upcoming April hearings in Paris.
