Elon Musk vs France! X, Grok investigation deepens over data, content allegations — Will this escalate further? Here’s what we know

Elon Musk was scheduled to appear before French prosecutors on Monday as part of an ongoing investigation into X and its AI chatbot Grok. The case has added pressure to already strained relations between the United States and Europe over issues linked to Big Tech regulation and free speech. However, it remained unclear whether Musk would attend the hearing.

The date for questioning was fixed in February after the Paris prosecutor’s cybercrime division conducted a raid on X’s French office. The initial inquiry focused on allegations tied to fraudulent data extraction. Authorities later widened the scope of the probe to examine suspected complicity in the distribution of child pornography and the creation of sexual deepfakes linked to Grok.

French prosecutors have stated that the investigation is examining whether X’s algorithms influenced how content is treated on the platform. Another key aspect of the probe is whether the company improperly collected user data. These concerns were raised through complaints filed by French lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Although attendance at the hearing is described as mandatory, authorities currently do not have the power to compel Musk to appear in person. Attempts to reach Musk’s representatives before the scheduled questioning were unsuccessful. Earlier, in July, Musk rejected the initial allegations, describing the case as a “politically-motivated criminal investigation.” The Paris prosecutor’s office has not issued a response to that claim.

Since Musk acquired X, the platform has faced increased scrutiny from regulators and governments across multiple countries. Investigations have focused on areas such as content moderation, compliance with local laws, and the handling of user data. The French case forms part of this broader pattern of regulatory attention on the company’s operations.

Former X CEO Linda Yaccarino, along with several other employees, has also been summoned as witnesses in connection with the probe. Their testimonies are expected to contribute to determining how the platform operates internally, particularly regarding algorithms and data use.

The investigation has also taken on an international dimension. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. Justice Department sent a letter to the Paris prosecutor indicating it would not cooperate with the inquiry, viewing it as politically motivated. This development signals potential friction between Washington and Paris over jurisdiction and regulatory authority.

In response, the Paris prosecutor’s office stated it had no knowledge of such a letter. It also emphasized that the French constitution ensures the independence of the judiciary and the separation of powers, underscoring that the investigation is being conducted within that framework.

Following the questioning phase, French authorities will decide the next steps in the case. They may choose to close the investigation or continue it further. If the probe advances, individuals involved could be placed under formal investigation, depending on the findings.

The outcome of this case is likely to be closely watched, not only for its legal implications but also for its potential impact on international regulatory relations and the broader debate around Big Tech governance.