EU's Digital Rule Enforces Online Content Regulation on Tech Giants
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Major tech companies, including Google, Facebook, and TikTok, must adhere to the European Union's (EU) far-reaching Digital Services Act (DSA), one of the most comprehensive efforts to clean up online content, according to a report by a UK daily.
The DSA, which went into effect recently, is part of a series of tech-focused regulations crafted by the EU to regulate tech giants, making the 27-nation bloc a global leader in this effort.
The DSA aims to ensure online user safety, curb the spread of harmful content (illegal or violating platform terms), and safeguard Europeans' fundamental rights like privacy and free speech.
Nineteen online platforms are currently affected, including social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Twitter (formerly known as X), YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Snapchat. Online marketplaces like Amazon, Booking.com, China's Alibaba AliExpress, and Germany's Zalando are also covered. Google Play, Apple's App Store, Google Search, Microsoft's Bing search engine, Google Maps, and Wikipedia are on the list.
The EU's list is based on user numbers, with platforms having 45 million or more users (or 10% of the EU's population) facing the highest level of DSA regulation. It is worth noting that some prominent platforms, like eBay, Airbnb and Netflix are not on the list, and more platforms may be added later.
The DSA requires platforms to provide ways for users to flag illegal content and dubious products, which platforms must promptly and objectively remove.
There are also changes to content reporting tools, making them more accessible. Additionally, some platforms are providing options to disable automated recommendation systems that can lead users to extreme content. The DSA prohibits targeting vulnerable groups, including children, with ads.
Tech companies violating DSA rules could face fines of up to 6% of their global revenue or even an EU ban.
While Europe's changes could have global implications, some platforms are making alterations applicable worldwide. Snapchat, for example, is rolling out its reporting and appeal process for illegal content globally.
These regulations are expected to have a ripple effect, given the global reach of digital ad networks and social media influencers.
The DSA focuses on ensuring tech companies have the appropriate processes in place to reduce harm inflicted by algorithm-based recommendation systems. Platforms must identify and assess systemic risks, and these assessments will be independently audited.
However, there have been criticisms about the lack of details in the EU's plan, leaving the process somewhat unclear.
