In a surprising turn reminiscent of high-stakes espionage, Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual, goes by the code name “Voyager” within his security team. This revelation, detailed in a report by The New York Times, highlights the extensive security measures Musk employs due to his vast wealth and public visibility.
Over the years, Elon Musk's approach to personal security has transformed significantly. Initially leading a modest lifestyle with minimal security measures, Musk shifted to a more robust security protocol in 2014 as his wealth and status rose. Today, Musk's security detail consists of up to 20 bodyguards, some of whom are armed, along with a medical professional. This dedicated team is responsible for ensuring Musk's safety at all times, reflecting the elevated risk he faces as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and the wealthiest person globally with a net worth surpassing $250 billion.
The expenses associated with Musk's security are substantial, with reports indicating that in January 2016 alone, his security costs exceeded $163,000. Recent financial records from Tesla reveal that Musk's security company billed $2.4 million in 2023 and an additional $500,000 through February 2024. These figures underscore Musk's significant financial investment in his safety.
Beyond personal security, Musk has implemented additional protective measures, such as acquiring a new residence in 2022 to avoid public scrutiny of his previous address. The new property features around-the-clock security, showcasing Musk's proactive stance in safeguarding his privacy and security.
While Musk prioritizes stringent security measures, he is not the only tech tycoon to do so.Security is a top concern in the tech industry, with a noticeable trend seen among leading figures. In 2023, a significant portion of Mark Zuckerberg's compensation at Meta was allocated to personal security expenses. Similarly, Apple made substantial investments in ensuring the security and private travel needs of CEO Tim Cook, reflecting a common practice among prominent executives. Tesla has enhanced its security procedures in response to threats, such as a death threat against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn. This involved implementing strict badge checks at facilities and addressing various reported terroristic threats to authorities.
