Tech Giant Under Scrutiny: European Authorities Investigate X and its AI
Paris, France – Recent actions by European authorities have placed the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, and its associated AI company, xAI, under intense scrutiny. Investigations are underway in both France and the United Kingdom, raising concerns about the platform’s handling of data, content moderation, and the potential misuse of artificial intelligence.
In Paris, law enforcement officials conducted a raid on X’s offices as part of a broader investigation into potential violations. These include allegations related to the creation and spread of illicit material, as well as the platform’s handling of user data. The investigation began in early 2025 and has expanded to include X’s AI chatbot Grok. Elon Musk, the owner of both X and xAI, along with former CEO Linda Yaccarino, have been requested to answer questions in April regarding these concerns.
Separately, in the United Kingdom, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched its own formal investigation into X and xAI, specifically focusing on Grok’s processing of personal data. The ICO has expressed worries about the AI’s potential to generate harmful content, including manipulated images and videos.
These investigations center around several key concerns. One major issue is the alleged creation and distribution of what are being called “sexual deepfakes,” AI-generated images that depict individuals in a compromising manner without their consent. This raises serious questions about privacy and the potential for AI to be used to harass and exploit individuals.
Another area of concern involves the platform’s handling of historical narratives. French authorities are examining whether Grok has been used to spread revisionist content, particularly related to the Holocaust. France has strict laws against Holocaust denial, and any content that seeks to distort or minimize the atrocities of the past is taken very seriously.
The European Commission has also joined the fray, launching its own investigation into X over concerns that Grok has been used to generate and circulate nonconsensual deepfakes across the platform. This is in addition to a substantial fine recently imposed on X by the EU for “deceptive design practices” related to its premium verification system.
These investigations highlight the growing challenges of regulating social media platforms and the use of artificial intelligence. As technology advances, so does the potential for misuse. Platforms like X face the difficult task of balancing free speech with the need to protect users from harm and ensure the accuracy of information.
The conservative perspective emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and limited government intervention. While acknowledging the potential dangers of unregulated technology, conservatives also caution against overly broad regulations that could stifle innovation and limit freedom of expression. Finding the right balance between these competing values is essential to ensuring that technology serves the common good.
As these investigations progress, it remains to be seen what actions will be taken against X and xAI. However, it is clear that European authorities are taking a firm stance on the need for accountability and responsible behavior in the digital realm. The outcome of these cases could have significant implications for the future of social media and the regulation of artificial intelligence worldwide.
