X Algorithms Face Criminal Probe in France Amid Global Concerns Over Societal Impact

Social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, is facing intensifying scrutiny over its algorithmic practices, including a criminal probe launched by French prosecutors. The platform's algorithms have drawn widespread criticism, with one user, BK 🇺🇸, directly accusing Musk on X, stating, > “Social Media Algorithms are rotting America’s soul” and adding, “@elonmusk you are the kingpin of this problem with X. Be better, do better for America 🇺🇸.” These concerns underscore a growing debate about the platform's influence on public discourse and its potential for societal harm.

Since Elon Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and rebranded it as X, the platform has undergone significant changes, often framed by Musk as a move towards absolute free speech. However, critics argue these changes have led to a more polarized environment, with some profiles accused of sharing misleading or controversial content gaining prominence. The BBC reported in late 2024 that X has evolved from a "communal town square into a polarised hub where views and posts seem even more controversial."

Research has indicated potential algorithmic biases on X, particularly favoring Elon Musk's own posts and certain political content. A study by Queensland University of Technology and Monash University found that Musk's posts saw a "sudden increase in views and engagement" after he endorsed Donald Trump, with some reports suggesting his tweets were artificially boosted by a factor of up to 1,000. This alleged algorithmic adjustment has raised questions about the platform's neutrality and its role in shaping public opinion.

The growing concerns have prompted official investigations. French prosecutors launched a criminal probe into X in early 2025 following complaints of "algorithm tampering" and "foreign interference," examining the company's actions and its senior management. Concurrently, the European Union has been investigating X for potential breaches of its Digital Services Act, which mandates platforms address the spread of harmful content.

Despite the external criticisms, Elon Musk himself has, at times, humorously acknowledged issues with X's recommendation algorithm. He once quipped, "If I see one more da*n Nazi salute in my feed, I’m gonna lose my mind 🤪 This algorithm sucks!!" Musk has also announced plans for algorithm tweaks to promote "more informational/entertaining content," aiming to maximize "unregretted user-seconds" and allow users to adjust their content feeds dynamically. The company maintains its commitment to protecting user voice and combating hate speech through its policies.