Tesla CEO Elon Musk has condemned the recent leak of personal data of Tesla owners across the United States, describing it as “extreme domestic terrorism.”
Incident Details
A website, known as “Dogequest,” has been publishing names, addresses, and phone numbers of Tesla owners, along with an interactive map that features a Molotov cocktail cursor. The website demands that owners prove they have sold their vehicles in order to have their information removed. This incident appears to be a response to Musk’s role in the US administration.
Rising Anti-Tesla Sentiment
This incident is not an isolated event, but rather part of a growing trend of anti-Tesla sentiment nationwide. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has called for a federal investigation into what she describes as “organized attacks” on Tesla facilities, citing incidents such as damaged charging stations, gunfire at a dealership, and arson targeting Cybertrucks. Greene has questioned potential connections between these incidents and Democrat-leaning organizations.
Elon Musk’s Response
Musk responded to the reports on social media, stating that “Encouraging destruction of Teslas throughout the country is extreme domestic terrorism!!”
Public Demonstrations and Protests
Public demonstrations against Tesla have become more common, with protesters gathering outside Tesla stores and vandalizing Tesla vehicles. Investor Ross Gerber has shared footage of protesters outside a Tesla store in Santa Monica, and has grown increasingly critical of the company, noting that Tesla shares remain overvalued.
Coinciding with Musk’s Dual Role
The tensions coincide with Musk’s dual role as Tesla CEO and leader of the Department of Government Efficiency in the US administration. Tesla reported its first annual sales decline in 2024, with analysts warning that the company has “lost too much brand value too quickly.”
Recent Endorsement
Despite the controversy, Musk received a recent endorsement from the US President, who purchased a Tesla Model S Plaid and described Musk as a “patriot” who was being “unfairly maligned” for his government efficiency efforts.
Why It Matters
The growing anti-Tesla sentiment and leaks of personal data have significant implications for the company and its customers. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Tesla will respond to these challenges and protect its customers’ personal information.