French Prosecutors Expand Probe into Elon Musk's X for AI Misuse

French prosecutors have extended their investigation into Elon Musk's X, targeting its AI chatbot Grok for potential offences, including data fraud and algorithm abuse. The expanded probe now addresses complicity in child-pornography distribution, misuse of images, and denial of crimes against humanity, following new evidence and expert opinions.

French authorities have amplified their investigation into Elon Musk's X on Tuesday, incorporating alleged offenses tied to its artificial intelligence chatbot, Grok. These actions come after claims of algorithm abuse and data extraction fraud were identified in an initial January 2025 inquiry. The company, X, has yet to provide a response.

The investigation began on January 12, 2025, following complaints, including one from a French lawmaker, pertaining to purportedly biased algorithms. Prosecutors had charged the company with algorithm abuse and data extraction fraud, with the case delegated to the police by July 9, 2025.

Following new evidence in November 2025, prosecutors expanded their inquiry to cover severe charges, such as complicity in the possession and dissemination of child pornography and denial of crimes against humanity. A January 2026 charge followed, addressing the publication of explicit deepfakes generated by X's Grok. Conducting searches at X's Paris office with police and Europol, prosecutors are now coordinating internationally on these pressing concerns.