French Investigation Targets X for Alleged Algorithmic Manipulation and Foreign Interference

On July 11, 2025, French authorities announced a criminal investigation into social media platform X, formerly Twitter, over allegations that its algorithm was manipulated to enable foreign interference and undermine democratic discourse in France, as reported by the Paris prosecutor’s office. The probe, led by prosecutor Laure Beccuau, follows two complaints filed in January 2025 and intensifies scrutiny of X’s operations under Elon Musk’s leadership.

Allegations of Algorithmic Manipulation

The investigation focuses on whether X’s algorithm was deliberately altered to amplify divisive, hateful, or misleading content, potentially skewing political conversations and threatening democratic integrity. Complaints highlight a “major modification” in the algorithm, reportedly leading to increased visibility of racist, anti-LGBTQ, and homophobic content, which critics argue distorts France’s political landscape.

Centrist lawmaker Eric Bothorel, a member of President Emmanuel Macron’s party and a cybersecurity advocate, filed one complaint, citing “recent changes to the X algorithm” and a “reduction in the diversity of voices and options” since Musk’s 2022 acquisition of the platform. Bothorel described these changes as a “real danger” to democracy, pointing to algorithmic opacity and Musk’s alleged personal interventions in content moderation. The second complaint, reported by Le Canard Enchaîné, came from a cybersecurity director in the French public sector, who raised alarms over the platform’s promotion of harmful content.

Legal Scope and Potential Implications

The probe, conducted by the national gendarmerie’s cybercrime unit, investigates possible offenses of “organised data system manipulation” and “fraudulent extraction of data” by X and its senior management. While not yet classified as “foreign interference” under France’s 2024 law, this designation could be applied as the investigation progresses, potentially setting a legal precedent.

The investigation was prompted by verifications from French researchers and intelligence from political institutions, reflecting concerns about AI-driven information warfare. It follows an initial inquiry launched in February 2025 by Beccuau’s office, which also oversees cases like the Telegram investigation involving CEO Pavel Durov.

X’s Response

Laurent Buanec, X’s France director, defended the platform in January 2025, asserting that it has “strict, clear, and public rules” to combat disinformation and prevent hateful content, claiming the algorithm is designed to avoid promoting such material. However, critics argue that Musk’s public support for far-right groups, such as Germany’s AfD, and his direct involvement in platform decisions undermine its neutrality.

Broader European Context

The French investigation aligns with broader European efforts to regulate tech platforms. In July 2024, the European Commission accused X of breaching the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), potentially facing significant fines. Former EU digital commissioner Thierry Breton, a French national, previously labeled Musk’s actions as “foreign interference” due to his comments supporting far-right politics in Europe.

A Test for Social Media Governance

This case positions France as a leader in addressing algorithmic manipulation and foreign influence in digital spaces. As the investigation unfolds, it could reshape how social media platforms are held accountable for their role in democratic processes, potentially challenging X’s operational model and Musk’s influence over the platform.

Source: African Publicity