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France opens investigation into platform X over suspected algorithm manipulation
French authorities have launched a formal investigation into the social media platform X—formerly known as Twitter—on suspicion that its algorithm was manipulated to serve foreign interference purposes. The announcement was made on Friday, July 11, by Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau.
The inquiry, which began on July 9, was opened by the cybercrime division of the Paris public prosecutor’s office. It targets both the legal entity of platform X and its leadership, though the statement does not specifically name Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and owner of the platform since 2022.
Reports of Algorithm Manipulation and Disinformation
The investigation follows two formal complaints received on January 12. The first came from Eric Bothorel, a French MP from the Côtes-d’Armor region and a specialist in digital affairs. He raised concerns about recent algorithmic changes on X and alleged political bias in the platform's operations following Musk’s acquisition.
Bothorel warned of a narrowing range of voices and opinions on the platform, calling into question its ability to maintain a safe and respectful digital environment. He also criticized the lack of transparency surrounding content moderation decisions and the platform’s apparent deviation from democratic values. He described Elon Musk’s direct involvement in platform governance as a “genuine threat to democracy.”
The second complaint reportedly came from a senior cybersecurity official in the French public sector. According to a February report by Le Canard Enchaîné, this individual alleged a major algorithmic shift that led to an increase in the visibility of hateful, racist, anti-LGBTQ+, and homophobic content on the platform—content that could distort democratic debate in France.
A Case Built on Expert Analysis and Institutional Input
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that the decision to open the investigation was based on expert analysis, academic contributions, and information provided by various public institutions. The case is being handled by France’s National Gendarmerie and focuses on potential violations such as organized tampering with automated data systems and the unauthorized extraction of data—both considered serious cyber offenses under French law.
Platform X Responds
In response to earlier accusations, X France’s general manager, Laurent Buanec, stated in January that the platform enforces strict and transparent rules to combat hate speech and disinformation. He added that X’s algorithm is designed to avoid promoting harmful content, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible moderation.
However, the French investigation suggests that the platform’s actual practices may be at odds with its stated policies—especially in a geopolitical climate where online influence operations are under increasing scrutiny.
The outcome of this investigation could have major implications for tech governance, freedom of speech, and the regulation of digital platforms in democratic societies.
