Praise, Criticism and Scams: What People Share about Elon Musk in Online Reviews

People aren’t just reviewing products: they’re talking about the people behind them. Elon Musk’s name pops up in online reviews more than ever. Whether fans or critics, consumers tie their experiences to his actions in business and politics. 

Key Insights

• Mentions of Elon Musk are emotionally charged. Some reviewers trust him to fix problems, while others blame him for their poor experience.
• Multiple reviews mention scams involving people pretending to be Elon Musk, offering fake giveaways or asking for money. 
• When business leaders are in the spotlight, reviewers often hold them personally responsible for the company’s actions, regardless of the issue. 

Mixed Feelings About Elon Musk

Consumer sentiment expressed in Elon Musk reviews often reveals a mix of hope, frustration, and skepticism. Some consumers see Musk as a figure who can bring accountability and solve problems, even when their complaints are about companies unrelated to him. For example, in review #6460787, one consumer wrote:

I have a feeling Elon Musk will take care of this FAKE COMPANY.

Similarly, another reviewer in #6447501 described alleged deceptive business practices and said:

this company is screwing with the algorithms on computer software and it is plagiarizing hotel website websites. It is deceitful it is illegal and to say the least unethical… Im even going to personally pass along to Elon Musk - hes cleaning up all the criminals

At the same time, many consumers express dissatisfaction and skepticism. In review #6463015, a consumer questioned:

Is this an Elon Musk run company? I have never encountered such sleaze.

Concerns About Musk’s Influence on Businesses

In addition to consumers, investors also voice strong opinions about Musk’s impact on his companies. Several Tesla shareholders express concern about the company’s direction under his leadership. In review #6494860, one investor wrote:

Elon Musk is poisoning this company. I am losing thousands every day. This is a great company, but I will be selling my stock… If it wasn't for Elon Musk, Tesla would be thriving.

Another Tesla customer in #6463202 described disappointment in the depreciation of their vehicles, despite Musk’s promises:

I bought 2 Model Y's, as per Elon's promises of increasing the value over the years, and the FSD future cost of $200k. Paid Over $115.000 CAD for one (including taxes), and OVER $130.000 for the other one, including the FSD... Only 2 years later, Tesla offered me $34.000 for one and $43.000 for the other.

New Scam Trends Involving Musk’s Name

As Musk’s public profile grows, scammers have started using his name to trick consumers, creating new types of fraud reported in Elon Musk news and online reviews.

In review #6568700, a Facebook user questioned the legitimacy of an Elon Musk Tesla profile:

Is the Elon Musk Tesla profile legitimate? It keeps asking me to buy a $25 Apple gift card. At first, it was a $250 card. I would like an answer.

Another victim shared in review #6588580 how they were contacted on Telegram by someone claiming to be Elon Musk, who promised a Tesla and $500,000, but asked for various fees totaling nearly $2,000:

They asked for fees to pay delivery and customs also another 200 fea for a card with picture and another for a registered ID card for 500 with a picture of Elon Musk and myself on it. All total about 2000 dollers.

Scams using Musk’s name follow common patterns:

• Fake investment opportunities using cryptocurrency.
• Prize schemes promising Tesla cars or cash rewards.
• Requests for upfront payments or gift cards to claim “winnings.”

How Public Figures Influence Consumer Feedback

When well-known business leaders engage in public life, their image often becomes part of how consumers judge the companies they represent. Elon Musk’s presence in political and tech spaces has made him a recurring figure in online reviews. 

Some consumers hope that he’ll step in and address their concerns. Others use his name to voice disappointment or distrust. Mentions of Musk in consumer reports highlight how public figures can shape trust and reputation and even inspire scams in their name.

What are your thoughts on public figures and customer trust? Do you judge a product based on its leader’s reputation? Let us know in the comments.