Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, is refusing to comply with a criminal investigation launched by French prosecutors.
The company describes the probe as “politically motivated” and a direct threat to freedom of expression.
In a statement released on Monday, X said it denies all allegations. It also confirmed it will not cooperate with the French authorities’ demands.
The investigation centers on claims of algorithmic bias and unlawful data collection. Prosecutors in Paris recently escalated the case, authorizing wiretaps, searches, and surveillance.
They may also summon Musk or senior executives for questioning. If they refuse, a judge could issue arrest warrants.
Political Interference
X argues that the investigation misuses French law to serve political interests and could consequently restrict open speech on digital platforms.
“Based on what we know so far, X believes that this investigation is distorting French law in order to serve a political agenda and, ultimately, restrict free speech,” the company posted on its Global Government Affairs account.
French prosecutors have not publicly responded to X’s accusations. However, under French law, failure to comply with judicial requests could lead to penalties.
The legal consequences range from fines to obstruction of justice charges.
The Allegation
X claims the probe originated from a complaint by French MP Éric Bothorel. He accused the platform of manipulating its algorithm for purposes of foreign interference.
X has dismissed the accusation as “completely false.” In response, Bothorel defended the French judiciary and rejected claims of political interference.
“It’s a concept that seems completely upended in the United States at the moment,” he said in a public statement.
He acknowledged France’s commitment to free speech, but stressed the need for accountability.
“The absence of responsibility and oversight endangers freedom just as much as prohibitions and censorship do,” he added.
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Researchers
The investigation has also drawn in researchers David Chavalarias and Maziyar Panahi as prosecutors reportedly asked X to share user data for analysis.
X criticized the selection of these researchers, claiming both have shown “open hostility” toward the platform.
Panahi rejected any involvement. “My name was mentioned by mistake,” he stated in an email. He clarified that his past projects with Chavalarias had no harmful intent toward X.
He also warned of possible legal action. “The fact my name has been mentioned in such an erroneous manner demonstrates how little regard they have for the lives of others,” he said.
Charges
X expressed concern over the legal framework applied. The use of organized crime laws allows authorities to conduct broader surveillance.
This includes the tapping of employees’ personal devices. Such measures are rarely used in tech-related investigations and raise concerns about proportionality.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, X insists that it is within its legal rights to reject the French authorities’ demands.
Europe vs. The U.S.
Musk has been previously criticized by European governments for stifling free speech.
On the other hand, the European Commission has also been investigating X under the Digital Services Act since late 2023.
The regulation targets platforms that fail to manage harmful or illegal content.
