ISTANBUL

Paris prosecutors on Friday launched an investigation into the functioning of the social media platform X, following allegations that its algorithms may have distorted the operation of an automated data processing system.

The probe was initiated after a complaint was filed on Jan. 12 by Eric Bothorel, a deputy from the Renaissance party, who raised concerns over potential algorithmic bias on X, according to Franceinfo radio.

"The algorithms are likely to have distorted the operation of an automated data processing system. Magistrates and specialized assistants from the cybercrime section are analyzing the case and conducting initial technical verifications," the prosecutor’s office said.

"I have seen several posts mentioning ‘those responsible for the distorted operation of X's recommendation algorithm.’ I formally referred the matter to the J3 cyber prosecutor on January 12," Bothorel said on X.