French Raid Targets X Headquarters
French prosecutors’ cyber-crime unit raided the Paris offices of Elon Musk’s X. They are investigating possible crimes including unlawful data extraction and complicity in possessing child pornography. Elon Musk and former X CEO Linda Yaccarino must appear at hearings in April.
The investigation began in January 2025, initially focusing on content recommended by X’s algorithm. Later in July, authorities expanded it to include Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok. At the time, X called the raids politically motivated and denied manipulating its algorithm.
Potential Crimes Under Investigation
French prosecutors are examining several allegations. They include organized distribution of child pornographic images, sexual deepfakes violating individuals’ image rights, and fraudulent data extraction by organized groups.
UK Launches New Grok AI Probe
Meanwhile, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) opened an investigation into Grok for creating sexualized images and videos. Many of these images reportedly used real photos of women without consent. Following heavy criticism from victims and online safety campaigners in January 2025, X eventually blocked the practice.
Ofcom continues to investigate the platform and treats the matter as urgent. However, it currently lacks authority to examine illegal images created by chatbots. Therefore, the ICO is working alongside Ofcom to review how Grok processed personal data.
William Malcolm, the ICO’s executive director, stated the investigation will focus on whether X implemented safeguards to prevent misuse of personal data in generating intimate or sexualized images.
European Commission Also Investigates
In addition, the European Commission began probing X’s parent company, xAI, in January 2025 over similar concerns. Officials said they coordinate with France regarding the Paris office raids.
Criticism From Tech Leaders
Telegram founder Pavel Durov criticized France for targeting social networks. He called the country “the only place in the world criminally persecuting networks that give people some freedom.” In 2024, France arrested Durov over moderation failures on Telegram. However, authorities released him after the platform made operational changes.
