In a surprising turn of events akin to high-stakes espionage, Elon Musk, the world's richest individual, operates under the alias "Voyager" within his security team. This revelation, brought to light by an article in The New York Times, illuminates the extensive security measures Musk employs due to his immense wealth and public prominence.
Over time, Elon Musk's approach to personal security has undergone significant changes. While initially maintaining a low-key lifestyle with minimal security, as his wealth and status grew, Musk implemented a more robust security protocol around 2014. This upgrade involved a rotating team of up to 20 bodyguards, some armed, in addition to a medical professional dedicated to managing potential threats and ensuring Musk's safety around the clock.
The expenses associated with Musk's security measures are substantial. In January 2016 alone, reports indicate that his security costs surpassed $163,000. Recent financial data from Tesla's SEC filings reveals that Musk's security company invoiced $2.4 million in 2023 and an extra $500,000 up to February 2024, underscoring the significant financial investment Musk has made to protect himself.
Beyond personal security, Musk has also taken steps to enhance his safety through other means. In 2022, he purportedly acquired a new property to avoid public scrutiny of his previous address. This new residence is outfitted with 24/7 security, demonstrating Musk's proactive stance towards safeguarding his privacy and well-being.
While Elon Musk's security arrangements stand out, he is not the only tech tycoon to prioritize such measures.Security is a top priority for tech leaders, with a noticeable increase in expenses related to personal security. Mark Zuckerberg's compensation from Meta in 2023 primarily covered security costs. Similarly, Apple invested significantly in CEO Tim Cook's security and private travel expenses, reflecting a larger trend among high-profile executives. Tesla has also enhanced its security measures in response to threats, such as implementing stricter badge checks and addressing reported terroristic threats following a death threat against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn.
