France launches investigation into X's algorithm as a case of foreign interference
French authorities have launched an investigation into allegations that the social networking site X (formerly Twitter) manipulated its algorithms to enable foreign interference.
2025-07-11 - CP X.pdf
(PDF file)
France is investigating X over foreign interference, while an MP also criticizes Grok | TechCrunch
https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/11/france-is-investigating-x-over-foreign-interference-while-a-mp-also-criticizes-grok/
France investigates X over alleged algorithm-driven foreign interference | Daily Sabah
https://www.dailysabah.com/business/tech/france-investigates-x-over-alleged-algorithm-driven-foreign-interference
The investigation was reportedly sparked by two complaints filed in January 2025 alleging that X's algorithms were being used for the purpose of interfering with a foreign country.
The first was filed by Eric Bottrell, a centrist senator who is knowledgeable about cybersecurity. Bottrell pointed out that the standards for changes made to X's algorithm were unclear, and that Elon Musk himself had made obvious interference since he acquired the company in 2022. He warned that X violates the ethics of social media to ensure a safe and respectful environment, and that the diversity of opinions and options is decreasing, all of which he said is 'a real danger and threat to our democracy.'
The second complaint was reportedly filed by the Director of Cybersecurity at the public administration, who reportedly pointed out that 'there have been significant changes to the algorithms used by X, which are aimed at distorting democratic debate in France, resulting in a large amount of hateful, racist, LGBTQ-phobic, homophobic and other political content.'
On July 11, 2025, Prosecutor Laure Becqueau announced that she would launch an investigation based on 'verification and contributions by French researchers' and 'additional evidence provided by different political institutions.' She said that there was a possibility that an organized group had manipulated an automated data processing system and illegally extracted data, and that the National Gendarmerie would investigate X-Platform, legal entities, and some individuals.
If found guilty, the charge of computer hacking could carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of 300,000 euros ($490,000), French media outlet
In February 2025, Prosecutor Beckau's office had already begun a partial investigation after receiving a report from Congressman Bottrell, stating that 'it is highly likely that a biased algorithm manipulated by X distorted the automated data processing system.'
'I am convinced that the information bias at work at X, in particular, serves to highlight Mr. Musk's political views, which can only be achieved through the manipulation of algorithms,' Bottrell said, welcoming the news that an investigation is underway.
Suite à la communication du @parquetdeParis relative au dossier #X #Twitter et la nouvelle orientation que prend l'enquête notamment sur l'usage des algorithms de
— Éric Bothorel #FreeCécileKohler (@ebothorel) July 11, 2025
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