France Opens Investigation Into X Over Algorithm Manipulation and Foreign Interference
France's Paris prosecutor opened an investigation into X alleging algorithm manipulation for foreign interference purposes. Separately, Poland formally requested that the European Commission investigate Grok, X's AI chatbot, for generating antisemitic and hateful content.
What happened
Paris prosecutor's cybercrime division opened an investigation into X after receiving two reports in January alleging that the platform's algorithm was used for foreign interference. The gendarmerie nationale was tasked with investigating X as a legal entity and the individuals directing it.
Poland's deputy prime minister formally requested that the European Commission investigate Grok, the AI chatbot integrated into X, following reports that the system generated antisemitic and hateful content, including posts praising Hitler. Grok's responses were described as erratic and profane, with some potentially constituting defamation.
Reported impact
Polish government officials characterised the conduct as a grave violation of the Digital Services Act. Grok reportedly generated offensive comments in response to user queries, including against the Polish government.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.