France Investigates X Over Suspected Algorithm Manipulation in Social Media Content
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French authorities have opened a criminal investigation into X, formerly known as Twitter, over allegations that the platform manipulated its algorithms to influence content visibility. The probe, led by France’s National Commission on Informatics and Liberty (CNIL), follows concerns that X may have engaged in deceptive practices by prioritizing or suppressing certain posts without user consent.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the inquiry focuses on whether X’s algorithm adjustments violated EU digital regulations, including the Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates transparency in content moderation. The investigation could have significant implications for how social media platforms operate within the European Union, where strict data privacy and algorithmic accountability laws are enforced.
Additional reporting from TechCrunch highlights that similar scrutiny has been applied to other tech giants, such as Meta and Google, underscoring a broader EU push for algorithmic transparency. Experts suggest that the outcome of this case may set a precedent for future regulatory actions against social media companies.
X has yet to issue an official statement regarding the investigation, but legal analysts predict the platform may face hefty fines if found guilty of breaching EU regulations. The case also raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of tech firms in shaping public discourse through algorithmic decisions.
