In a surprising development with shades of high-stakes espionage, the world's wealthiest individual, Elon Musk, goes by the alias “Voyager” within his security team. This detail, revealed in a report by The New York Times, offers insight into the extensive security measures Musk employs due to his substantial wealth and public visibility.
Over the years, Elon Musk's security approach has undergone significant changes. Initially known for leading a relatively low-profile life with minimal security, Musk shifted to a more robust security protocol by 2014 as his wealth and status grew. This adjustment involved a rotating team of security personnel dedicated to handling potential threats and ensuring his safety.
Presently, Musk's security team consists of up to 20 bodyguards, some of whom are armed, in addition to a medical professional. This comprehensive group is responsible for safeguarding Musk around the clock, reflecting the increased risks he faces as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and the wealthiest person globally, with a net worth exceeding $250 billion.
The costs associated with Elon Musk's security are substantial. Reports indicate that in January 2016 alone, his security expenses surpassed $163,000. Recent figures show significant expenditure on security, 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 numbers underscore Musk's financial commitment to his personal safety.
Apart from personal security, Musk has also invested in other protective measures. For instance, in 2022, he reportedly acquired a new property to avoid public scrutiny of his previous residence. The new location is equipped with 24/7 security, underscoring Musk's proactive strategy in safeguarding his privacy and protection.
In comparison to other tech magnates, Musk is not the only one who places a high priority on security measures.Security concerns are a common theme among top tech executives. Mark Zuckerberg's compensation at Meta in 2023 mainly consisted of expenses for personal security. Similarly, Apple invested heavily in ensuring the security and private travel of CEO Tim Cook, reflecting a larger trend among high-profile leaders. Tesla has also enhanced its security measures following threats, such as a death threat against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn. This led to stricter badge checks at Tesla facilities and addressing various reported terroristic threats with law enforcement involvement.
