Elon Musk's Heightened Security Measures: Code Name 'Voyager' and a Team of 20 Bodyguards

Elon Musk's code name is.... and he travels with up to 20 bodyguards; know the reason | - Times of India

In a dramatic twist reminiscent of high-stakes espionage, Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual, operates under the code name "Voyager" within his security team. This detail, uncovered by a report from The New York Times, sheds light on the extensive security measures Musk employs due to his significant wealth and public prominence. Elon Musk's security measures Elon Musk's approach to personal security has evolved substantially over the years.Initially, Musk was known for his relatively low-key lifestyle and minimal security. However, by 2014, as his wealth and status surged, he transitioned to a more rigorous security protocol. This shift included a rotating team of security personnel dedicated to managing potential threats and ensuring his safety. Today, Musk's security detail comprises up to 20 bodyguards, some of whom are armed, alongside a medical professional. This comprehensive team is tasked with protecting Musk at all times, reflecting his heightened risk profile as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and the richest person globally with a net worth exceeding $250 billion. Cost of protection for Elon Musk's security The costs associated with Musk's security are substantial. Reports indicate that in January 2016 alone, Musk's security expenses exceeded $163,000. The total expenditure on security in recent years is significant, with Tesla's SEC filings revealing that Musk's security company billed $2.4 million in 2023 and an additional $500,000 through February 2024. These figures illustrate the financial commitment Musk has made to ensure his safety. In addition to personal security, Musk has invested in other protective measures. For example, in 2022, Musk reportedly purchased a new residence to evade public scrutiny of his former address. The new property is equipped with 24/7 security, highlighting Musk's proactive approach to safeguarding his privacy and security. Comparisons with other tech tycoons Musk is not alone in prioritising security. Similar trends are observed among other tech leaders. Mark Zuckerberg's total compensation from Meta in 2023 largely consisted of expenses related to personal security. Likewise, Apple's expenditures on CEO Tim Cook's security and private travel-related costs were substantial, reflecting a broader trend among high-profile executives. Tesla has also bolstered its security protocols in response to threats. For instance, after a death threat against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn, Tesla heightened its security measures. This included implementing rigorous badge checks at its facilities and addressing multiple terroristic threats reported to law enforcement. Also read | Hamster Kombat game to airdrop billions of tokens through Binance; a massive reward opportunity for Telegram players The TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology to readers of The Times of India. TOI Tech Desk's news coverage spans a wide spectrum across gadget launches, gadget reviews, trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact technology and the digital universe. Be it how-tos or the latest happenings in AI, cybersecurity, personal gadgets, platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and more; TOI Tech Desk brings the news with accuracy and authenticity.

Elon Musk Has Secret Service-Like Security Team That Calls Him 'Voyager:' Growing Threats After Tesla Austin Factory Scare Have Led To The Richest Man In The World Leading An Increasingly Isolated Lifestyle

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual with a net worth of $251 billion has been assigned the codename "Voyager" by his security team. What Happened: Musk's security detail functions similarly to a small-scale Secret Service. The tech billionaire is protected more like a state leader than a corporate executive, with up to 20 security professionals accompanying him at times, reported the New York Times on Friday. They frequently carry firearms and have a medical professional on hand for the tech mogul's assistance. As Musk's wealth and popularity have increased, so have the threats against him. His security team has had to evolve to handle stalkers and death threats, a significant departure from the harmless fan messages he used to receive. The report indicates that Musk's security expenses amount to millions of dollars each year, paid to various security firms including Gavin de Becker & Associates and his own private security company, Foundation Security. See Also: Mark Zuckerberg Live Event Sold Out Stadium: Meta CEO Attracted Thousands Eager To Hear Him Speak On 'The Next Decade Of Social, Technology, And AI The report also detailed an incident where a man was apprehended near Tesla's Austin factory, accused of planning a "mass casualty event." Musk's security was fully mobilized for the event, with over three dozen Tesla security officials stationed throughout the room. The report suggests that the threats to his safety have led Musk to become more fearful and his lifestyle more isolated. He is rarely without bodyguards, even when he is at his social media company, X, formerly Twitter. Subscribe to the Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox. Why It Matters: Musk's security concerns have been escalating over time. In December 2022, he expressed agreement with a post on Twitter that he had become "public enemy number one to some very very bad people." Previously, Musk has also revealed that his son X's vehicle was followed by a "crazy stalker" who jumped on the car's hood, thinking Musk was inside. In January 2023, Musk posted a seemingly sarcastic tweet about his possible death under mysterious circumstances after sharing an alleged note by Russian space agency chief Dmitry Rogozin that mentioned him and the Pentagon. Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by following this link. Read Next: Apple's iPhone Production Move To India Signals Broader Tech Exodus From China, With Microsoft And Amazon Following Suit, Says Analyst Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. Photo courtesy: Shutterstock Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs