French authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, now operating under the name X, over allegations of algorithm manipulation, fraudulent data collection, and potential election interference. The case was formally launched on 11 July, following initial reports from January. The inquiry is being handled by the French prosecutor’s office, which has described the alleged activity as the work of an “organised gang.”
The French government has accused X of failing to cooperate with its investigation and has demanded detailed technical disclosures from the company. In response, X has rejected the request and criticised the investigation as politically motivated.
French authorities demand algorithm data
As part of the ongoing inquiry, French prosecutors have requested that X provide detailed information about its recommendation algorithm, along with real-time data related to all user posts on the platform. The request is part of an effort to assess whether X’s algorithm has been used to manipulate information, particularly in the context of national elections.
To support the investigation, France has enlisted several independent experts. Among them is David Chavalarias, director of the Paris Complex Systems Institute (ISC-PIF), who leads a public initiative known as “Escape X.” Chavalarias has been vocal in his criticism of the platform, advocating for increased regulation and user transparency. Working alongside him is Maziyar Panahi, an AI engineer also based at ISC-PIF. Panahi has collaborated with Chavalarias on multiple projects that X has described as showing “open hostility” towards the company.
X disputes the investigation and refuses to cooperate
X has pushed back strongly against the allegations and the experts involved, arguing that their participation undermines the neutrality of the investigation. The company expressed concerns that the presence of individuals already critical of its operations could lead to a biased outcome. As a result, X has declined to provide the French government with access to the requested technical and user data.
In a statement released by its Global Government Affairs account, X accused French authorities of targeting the platform for political reasons. The company stated: “The politically-motivated criminal investigation in France egregiously undermines X’s fundamental right to due process and threatens our users’ rights to privacy and free speech.”
X also singled out Éric Bothorel, a French parliamentarian who is leading part of the investigation. According to the company, Bothorel has publicly accused X of algorithmic manipulation aimed at facilitating foreign interference. X denied the charge, calling it “completely false.”
Growing tensions between tech firms and regulators
The case is the latest example of escalating tension between major technology platforms and national governments over transparency, data privacy, and the role of algorithms in shaping public discourse. France’s approach marks one of the most direct and forceful responses to date, with criminal proceedings suggesting a new level of scrutiny for platforms operating within the country.
The outcome of the investigation could have broader implications for the regulation of digital platforms in Europe. It may also set a precedent for future requests by governments seeking access to internal platform data and algorithmic processes.
