X refuses to comply with French investigation, labels it 'politically driven'

Elon Musk's X rejects French allegations of data manipulation, claiming investigation seeks to restrict free speech

Elon Musk’s social media platform X has declined to comply with a French criminal investigation, denying allegations of data manipulation and fraudulent data extraction.

The company claims the probe, which intensified this month, is politically motivated and aims to restrict free speech.

French authorities have launched a politically-motivated criminal investigation into X over the alleged manipulation of its algorithm and alleged “fraudulent data extraction.” X categorically denies these allegations.

This investigation, instigated by French politician Eric…

— Global Government Affairs (@GlobalAffairs) July 21, 2025

The investigation began in January following complaints from a French lawmaker and a senior official.

Authorities allege that X’s algorithm was used for foreign interference, leading to inquiries into data tampering and unauthorized data extraction, as reported by CNBC.

X’s global government affairs account issued a statement rejecting the allegations. “French authorities have launched a politically-motivated criminal investigation into X,” the post read. “X categorically denies these allegations.”

Now overseen by France’s national police, the investigation focuses on tampering with automated data systems. Prosecutors have requested access to X’s recommendation algorithm and real-time user data for expert analysis.

X claims it remains unclear about the specific allegations but argues the investigation distorts French law to serve a political agenda. The company has refused to provide the requested data, asserting its legal right to withhold it.

X also raised concerns about the impartiality of two experts involved in the investigation. The company questioned their fairness, citing potential political bias, as both have expressed open hostility towards X.

The dispute highlights growing tensions between tech platforms and government authorities over data privacy, free speech, and regulation.