Elon Musk’s company X is resisting French authorities’ request for data related to a probe into algorithm manipulation, claiming it defends users’ free speech and privacy rights. The investigation was sparked by allegations of amplifying hateful content on the platform.
French authorities requested access to X’s recommendation algorithm and real-time user post data to analyze the platform’s operation and identify potential bias. However, X claims only one politician, Eric Bothorel, initiated the probe due to concerns over algorithm manipulation affecting French users’ political views.
X’s response contradicts a Paris Prosecutor’s Office statement that the investigation was prompted by reports from two sources: a Member of Parliament and a senior official at a public institution. The probe also involves experts who have denied any involvement in rigging the investigation.
The allegations may cast doubt on X’s claims, as it appears to distort some facts in its response to the request.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/07/researcher-threatens-x-with-lawsuit-after-falsely-linking-him-to-french-probe