In a surprising turn of events reminiscent of high-stakes espionage, Elon Musk, the wealthiest individual in the world, is known within his security team by the pseudonym "Voyager." This revelation, brought to light by a report from The New York Times, illuminates the extensive security precautions Musk implements due to his considerable wealth and high public profile.
Over the years, Elon Musk's approach to personal security has undergone significant changes. Originally known for his understated lifestyle and limited security measures, Musk shifted to a more stringent security protocol as his fortune and influence grew, particularly around 2014. This transformation involved assembling a rotating group of security staff dedicated to identifying and managing potential threats to ensure his safety.
At present, Musk's security detail consists of as many as 20 bodyguards, some of whom are armed, and a medical professional. This comprehensive team is responsible for safeguarding Musk around the clock, reflecting the increased risk he faces as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, as well as the richest person globally with a net worth surpassing $250 billion.
The expenses related to Elon Musk's security are substantial. Reports indicate that in January 2016 alone, his security costs exceeded $163,000. Recent years have seen a significant total spend 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 financial figures underscore Musk's commitment to ensuring his safety.
In addition to personal security, Musk has made investments in other protective measures. For instance, in 2022, he purportedly acquired a new residence to avoid public scrutiny of his previous address. This new property is equipped with 24/7 security, emphasizing Musk's proactive stance on protecting his privacy and safety.
While prioritizing his security needs, Musk is not the only tech mogul to do so.Security. Similar patterns can be seen among other top technology figures. In 2023, a significant portion of Mark Zuckerberg's total compensation at Meta was allocated towards personal security expenses. Similarly, Apple dedicated substantial funds towards CEO Tim Cook's security and travel expenses, aligning with the broader trend seen among prominent executives. Tesla has also enhanced its security measures in response to specific threats. Following a death threat against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn, Tesla strengthened security protocols by implementing strict badge checks at its facilities and addressing multiple reported terror threats to law enforcement.
