Study on the Digital Services Act: Transparency database for online services does not meet objectives
A recent study reveals significant shortcomings in the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) transparency database, designed to increase public understanding of how online services moderate content. The study indicates that the database, intended to enhance transparency and provide insights into content moderation practices, fails to meet its objectives due to fundamental design flaws. This development raises concerns about the effectiveness of current regulatory approaches. The database, which has data from over 200 providers, has received nearly four billion moderation decisions in the last six months. However, the study from the University of Zurich highlights issues with user-friendliness, accessibility, and the absence of critical data needed to monitor the spread of illegal content. The study also questions the consistency, reliability, and validity of the data reported by online services. This impacts users seeking clarity on content moderation decisions, as well as researchers and regulators aiming to oversee the digital space. The findings suggest that the database's current structure limits its ability to monitor illegal content and verify moderation decisions effectively. The researchers advocate for improvements and a reevaluation of the regulatory goals themselves.
To provide multilingual access, this article summary was automatically generated.
Source Information
European Alternatives You Might Like
Pixelfed
Pixelfed is a decentralized, open-source social media platform for sharing images. Users can upload and share photos, follow other users, and interact through likes, comments, and shares. Utilizing the ActivityPub protocol, Pixelfed allows for federation, enabling users to interact with individuals on other compatible platforms. It is designed for photographers and anyone seeking a privacy-focused, community-driven alternative to centralized image-sharing services.
Element (Matrix)
Element is a secure, decentralized communication platform built on the Matrix protocol. It allows users to send end-to-end encrypted messages, share files, and participate in group chats. Key features include voice and video calls, bridging with other communication platforms like Slack and Discord, and the ability to host your own server for enhanced privacy and control. Element is suitable for individuals, teams, and organizations seeking secure and private communication, and is particularly beneficial for those who value data sovereignty and open-source solutions.
CryptPad
CryptPad is an end-to-end encrypted online office suite offering collaborative document creation and editing. It provides functionalities similar to other office suites, including text documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and code editors, all with a priority on user privacy. Unique features include its zero-knowledge architecture, which prevents the server from accessing user data, and its open-source nature, which allows for independent audits and community contributions. This makes it suitable for individuals and teams seeking secure and private online collaboration, especially those who prioritize data confidentiality.
SoundCloud
SoundCloud is a digital audio distribution platform where users can upload, promote, and share their original music and audio. Key features include music streaming, direct messaging, commenting, and the ability to follow artists and playlists. This platform is primarily used by independent musicians, DJs, and podcasters to share their work, connect with listeners, and build an audience. SoundCloud offers a vast library of user-generated content, providing access to a wide range of music and audio not always available on other streaming services.