The platform X is facing scrutiny from both French and European regulators. The French digital regulator, Arcom, received a referral regarding anti-Semitic and racist content generated by X’s AI chatbot, Grok, which was triggered by a complaint about hateful content. Simultaneously, the European Commission has been investigating X for nearly two years, specifically addressing the spread of misinformation and the platform’s algorithms. Pressure to conclude the EU investigation has increased, particularly following the streaming of an interview with a far-right German party leader.
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Analysis of three X users—Anastasia Maria Loupis, Laura Loomer, and Owen Shroyer—who experienced significant drops in reach after criticizing Elon Musk reveals a potential pattern of suppression. Their decreased visibility followed public disagreements with Musk, coinciding with Musk’s statements about limiting the reach of users who block others and his actions regarding X Premium access. While X denies content suppression based on opinion, the lack of transparency in X’s algorithms and Musk’s control over the platform raise concerns about free speech on the site. These incidents, along with Musk’s past actions, suggest a potential abuse of power, contradicting his claims of creating a free speech haven.
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A Paris cybercrime unit has opened an investigation into X’s algorithms, prompted by concerns over algorithm manipulation and potential distortion of its automated data processing system. The investigation follows reports alleging algorithm changes led to the over-representation of certain political content and preferential treatment of Elon Musk’s posts. This action utilizes a novel legal interpretation, applying existing hacking laws to algorithm manipulation on social media platforms. The investigation coincides with broader European scrutiny of X’s content moderation and algorithm practices.
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John Q. Hosedrinker