WhatsApp is partially subject to the Digital Services Act from May

WhatsApp, the widely used messaging service owned by Meta, is set to fall under specific provisions of the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) starting in May. The European Commission has designated WhatsApp as a "very large online platform," a classification that triggers a set of enhanced obligations concerning content moderation and transparency. This decision signifies a significant step in the EU's efforts to regulate major digital players and ensure fairer online environments across the bloc. Under the DSA, WhatsApp will be required to implement more robust systems for identifying and removing illegal content, provide greater transparency regarding its content moderation policies and algorithms, and allow for independent audits of its operations. The designation is specifically tied to its role as a communication service, highlighting the EU's focus on how platforms handle user-generated content and potentially harmful material disseminated through these channels. This move underscores the growing scrutiny of large tech companies regarding their societal impact and responsibilities. The implications of this classification extend to both WhatsApp and its users within the EU. The company must adapt its internal processes and technical infrastructure to comply with the new regulatory framework, potentially leading to changes in how content is managed and how users report problematic material. For users, this could translate into a safer online experience with more accountability from the platform, as well as increased transparency about the platform's operations and decision-making. The EU's proactive regulatory stance aims to foster a more competitive and secure digital single market, encouraging innovation while safeguarding fundamental rights.