DSA: EU Commission criticizes violations on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok
The European Commission has found that Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are not fully complying with the Digital Services Act (DSA), raising concerns about data access for researchers and content moderation. These findings could lead to financial penalties for the platforms if they fail to address the identified shortcomings. The investigation follows initial proceedings launched in Spring 2024 concerning youth protection and disinformation. Specifically, the Commission found that all three platforms hinder researchers' access to data, with cumbersome request processes and unreliable data provision. Additionally, Instagram and Facebook face criticism for overly complex content reporting mechanisms, potentially deterring users from flagging illegal content. The DSA mandates that platforms, especially "Very Large Online Platforms" (VLOPs), ensure easy reporting. These issues directly impact user rights and the effective removal of illegal content, as complicated reporting processes and manipulative design choices frustrate users. The Commission received numerous complaints about the difficulty of reporting content, highlighting the need for Meta to improve its systems. The findings also include concerns about the complaint mechanisms regarding content moderation. The European Commission's actions underscore the EU's commitment to regulating digital platforms and protecting user rights, particularly in the realm of content moderation and data transparency. The outcome of this investigation will set a precedent for how the DSA is enforced, shaping the online landscape within Europe.
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