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Elon Musk Summoned to Testify in X Content Probe

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. musk-summoned-to-testify-in-x-content-probe.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 6:32 GMT by Deccan Herald
      Locales: FRANCE, UNITED STATES

Paris, France - February 3rd, 2026 - Elon Musk has been formally summoned by French prosecutors to appear as a witness in an ongoing investigation into X (formerly Twitter) regarding its handling of content during the violent riots that gripped France in 2023. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the summons today, marking a significant escalation in European scrutiny of the platform's content moderation practices under Musk's ownership.

The investigation, initiated in the wake of the widespread unrest, centers on allegations that X failed to adequately comply with French laws and legal requests to remove illegal content - specifically posts inciting hatred and violence - during a period of intense social upheaval. French authorities contend that X was slow to act on reports of harmful content, potentially exacerbating the situation on the ground.

This isn't simply a review of past events; it's a crucial test case for the Digital Services Act (DSA), the landmark European Union regulation designed to hold social media platforms accountable for the content shared on their services. The DSA, which came into full effect in February 2024, mandates that large online platforms like X proactively identify and remove illegal content, implement robust content moderation systems, and provide greater transparency regarding their algorithms and policies. Musk has been a vocal critic of the DSA, arguing it infringes on free speech principles and imposes undue burdens on platforms.

The initial probe was triggered by complaints regarding X's perceived inaction in removing inflammatory posts during the riots. Authorities had previously demanded detailed information from the company regarding its content moderation policies, practices, and the speed with which it responds to legal takedown requests. The focus of the investigation extends beyond simple failure to remove content; it delves into whether X actively facilitated the spread of illegal material through algorithmic amplification or by failing to adequately resource its content moderation teams.

This summons represents a rare instance of a legal challenge targeting a platform's CEO directly, framing Musk not just as a businessman, but as an individual potentially responsible for the consequences of the platform's moderation choices. Legal experts suggest that while the initial summons is for testimony as a witness, the possibility of future charges against Musk or X cannot be ruled out, especially if investigators uncover evidence of deliberate negligence or willful disregard for French law.

The implications of this case extend far beyond the borders of France. Other European nations are closely watching the proceedings, and a ruling against X could set a precedent for enforcement of the DSA across the EU. It could also embolden other regulatory bodies to pursue similar investigations into other social media platforms. The core question being debated is the balance between protecting free speech and ensuring platforms aren't used to disseminate illegal and harmful content.

Musk's acquisition of Twitter and subsequent rebranding to X has been marked by a significant shift in content moderation philosophy. He has advocated for a "free speech absolutist" approach, arguing that platforms should allow the broadest possible range of expression, even if that includes potentially offensive or controversial views. While he claims to oppose illegal content, critics argue that his changes have led to a loosening of content moderation standards, resulting in a surge in hate speech, misinformation, and harmful content. This is particularly sensitive in a country like France, which has strict laws against incitement to hatred and violence.

The 2023 riots, sparked by the police killing of Nahel Merzouk, a 17-year-old of Algerian descent, highlighted the potential for social media to amplify real-world tensions. False narratives and calls for violence circulated widely on platforms like X, fueling the unrest and complicating efforts to restore order. French authorities argue that X, by failing to address this spread, contributed to the escalation of the crisis.

Furthermore, the investigation will likely examine X's compliance with the DSA's requirements around transparency. The DSA mandates that platforms publish regular reports detailing their content moderation activities, the volume of illegal content removed, and the effectiveness of their systems. Scrutiny will be paid to whether X has been forthright in its reporting and whether its stated policies align with its actual practices.

The coming months will be critical as French prosecutors gather evidence and prepare their case. Musk's testimony, when given, will be closely scrutinized, and the outcome of the investigation could have profound implications for the future of content moderation on social media in Europe and beyond.