Elon Musk Challenges FTC Data Audits for X Again
Originally published Jun 4, 2026
By Ashley Belanger · Ars Technica
AI-generated summary based on Ars Technica · Aggregated by OffScreenSpace · Human-reviewed and approved on Jun 4, 2026
Key points
- Elon Musk is challenging an FTC order requiring audits of X's data practices.
- The FTC order was imposed after a data mishandling incident involving user contact information.
- Musk argues the order should end as X has been merged into SpaceX, and original staff no longer work there.
- The FTC raised concerns about X's compliance due to staff cuts and Musk's interference in internal systems.
- Musk previously tried to revoke the order in 2023 but lost the case.
Elon Musk is once again attempting to avoid compliance with a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) order that requires regular audits of X's data-handling practices. The order, imposed in 2022, was a result of a settlement following a data mishandling incident involving user contact information. Musk argues that the order should be terminated because the company structure has changed, with X being merged into xAI and then SpaceX. The FTC, however, maintains concerns about X's ability to uphold privacy standards, citing past issues with staff reductions and Musk's interference in internal systems. In 2023, Musk previously tried to have the order revoked, but the court denied his request. The FTC remains focused on ensuring that user data is protected, particularly as Musk's leadership has led to significant changes in company operations.
Read the original story: Ars Technica — by Ashley Belanger