Austria: Privacy Group Files Complaints Against Elon Musk’s ‘X’ in Eight European Countries

VIENNA — The European Digital Rights Center, known as Noyb (“None of Your Business”), has filed complaints against Elon Musk’s social network “X” in eight European countries, alleging unlawful use of users’ personal data for artificial intelligence technology without consent.

The complaints, lodged in Austria, Belgium, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, accuse “X” (formerly “Twitter”) of violating data protection laws.

Noyb’s actions follow recent legal proceedings initiated by Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), which raised concerns over “X’s” data collection practices for AI training.

According to Noyb, “X” has integrated the personal data of over 60 million European users into its Grok AI technology without informing them or obtaining their consent.

“Many users only became aware of this invasive practice through a viral post on July 26th,” said Max Schrems, a prominent privacy activist and founder of Noyb. “This lack of transparency and blatant disregard for privacy laws is unacceptable.”

Noyb contends that “X” failed to notify users about the use of their data for AI purposes, a requirement under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

The organization has called for an “urgent procedure” to address the issue and has requested immediate action from data protection authorities in the affected countries.

The complaints highlight growing concerns over the use of personal data in developing artificial intelligence technologies. With AI’s rapid advancement, the ethical and legal implications of data usage have become a focal point for privacy advocates and regulators alike.

“Elon Musk’s ‘X’ is setting a dangerous precedent by bypassing consent and transparency,” Schrems added. “We need robust enforcement of data protection laws to ensure that users’ rights are upheld.”

Ireland’s DPC, which represents the European Union in data protection matters, announced last week that “X” had agreed to halt the processing of users’ personal data for its AI technology.

However, Noyb argues that this measure is insufficient and calls for a comprehensive investigation into “X’s” data practices.

“We welcome the DPC’s initial action, but more needs to be done,” Schrems stated. “The data protection authorities across these eight countries must conduct thorough investigations and hold ‘X’ accountable for any breaches of the law.”

In response to the complaints, “X” has yet to issue an official statement. The social network, which rebranded from Twitter to “X” following Musk’s acquisition, has faced criticism over its handling of user data and privacy policies.

The platform’s integration of AI technologies has sparked debate over the balance between innovation and user privacy.

Legal experts suggest that the outcome of these complaints could have significant implications for AI development and data protection regulations in Europe.

“This case could set a landmark precedent for how AI technologies are regulated,” said Dr. Helen Dixon, a data privacy law professor. “It underscores the necessity for clear guidelines and stringent enforcement to protect user privacy in the digital age.”

As the investigation unfolds, users across Europe are watching closely, hoping for stronger safeguards against unauthorized data usage.

“Our personal data is not a free-for-all for tech giants,” Schrems emphasized. “We deserve transparency, consent, and respect for our privacy rights.”

Noyb’s actions reflect a broader movement advocating for stricter data protection measures and corporate accountability in the digital era.

The complaints against “X” serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to balance technological advancement with fundamental privacy rights.