In a surprising turn of events reminiscent of high-stakes espionage, Elon Musk, the wealthiest person in the world, goes by the alias "Voyager" within his security team. This new detail, revealed in a report by The New York Times, sheds light on the extensive security measures Musk employs due to his immense wealth and public visibility.
Over the years, Elon Musk's approach to personal security has undergone significant changes. Initially known for his modest lifestyle and minimal security measures, Musk shifted to a more robust security protocol around 2014 as his wealth and stature grew. This shift involved establishing a rotating team of up to 20 security personnel, some armed, and a medical professional dedicated to managing potential threats and ensuring Musk's safety. This comprehensive security team reflects the increased risks he faces as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, as well as the wealthiest individual globally with a net worth exceeding $250 billion.
The costs associated with Musk's security are substantial, with reports indicating that his security expenses surpassed $163,000 in January 2016 alone. Recent financial disclosures from Tesla indicate that Musk's security company billed $2.4 million in 2023 and an additional $500,000 through February 2024. These figures underscore the significant financial investment Musk has made to guarantee his safety.
In addition to personal security, Musk has taken other protective measures, such as purchasing a new residence in 2022 to avoid public scrutiny of his previous address. The new property features 24/7 security, demonstrating Musk's proactive stance on safeguarding his privacy and security.
While Musk's security measures are substantial, he is not the only tech titan to prioritize such precautions.Security remains a top priority for tech leaders, with notable expenses allocated towards personal security measures. In 2023, a significant portion of Mark Zuckerberg's compensation at Meta was dedicated to security expenses. This trend is also evident in Apple, where substantial resources are allocated for Tim Cook's security and private travel requirements. Tesla has responded to threats by enhancing security protocols, such as implementing strict badge checks and addressing reported terroristic threats after a death threat was made against former CFO Zachary Kirkhorn.