France Launches Criminal Probe Into X Over Alleged Algorithm Manipulation

French authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into Elon Musk's social media platform X, examining potential algorithmic manipulation for foreign interference. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the probe, led by the national gendarmerie's cybercrime unit, targets both the company and unnamed individuals.

Charges center on two key offenses: unauthorized alteration of an automated data processing system and fraudulent data extraction by an organized group. These allegations suggest a coordinated effort to compromise democratic integrity through platform manipulation.

The investigation follows February reports from French cybersecurity officials and MP Éric Bothorel about X's alleged use of algorithm manipulation for foreign interference. This marks the first formal inquiry into the platform's practices by French authorities.