Musk’s X refuses to share algorithm with French prosecutors, decrying ‘politically motivated’ probe

Elon Musk’s social network X has rejected a French organised-crime investigation that demands its recommendation algorithm and live user data, calling the case an attempt to muzzle free expression.

X said on Monday that Paris prosecutors were “distorting French law to serve a political agenda” after police were authorised to examine the platform for suspected algorithmic bias and fraudulent data extraction. The company, formerly known as Twitter, said it would not comply with requests that could expose private posts and internal code.

The preliminary probe, upgraded earlier this month, allows investigators to use organised-crime powers such as wire-tapping employees’ devices. Prosecutors are examining whether X manipulated its feed to enable “foreign interference,” an allegation the firm denies.

In a statement on its Global Government Affairs account, X accused French MP Éric Bothorel of instigating the case and undermining “millions of users’ free speech.” Neither Bothorel nor the prosecutor’s office responded to requests for comment.

Court papers seen by X show investigators sought access to real-time data and source code for review by researchers David Chavalarias and Maziyar Panahi. Panahi said his name had been included “by mistake” and threatened defamation action; Chavalarias did not comment.

Musk, who has frequently criticised European content rules, echoed X’s stance, warning of “growing state censorship.” The clash comes as France separately investigates Telegram founder Pavel Durov under similar organised-crime statutes—a move digital-rights groups say risks chilling online debate.

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