In a significant development related to online platforms and digital regulations, the European Commission has formally requested information from company X under the Digital Services Act (DSA). 
This request comes in response to concerns raised about the alleged spread of illegal content, disinformation, hate speech, and terrorist or violent content on X’s platform. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key details of this request and what it means for both X and the broader digital landscape.
The Digital Services Act (DSA) in a Nutshell
The DSA is a vital component of the European Union’s digital strategy. It sets out new standards for accountability when it comes to online platforms and their role in addressing issues like disinformation, illegal content, and societal risks. It’s designed to strike a balance between safeguarding freedom of expression and protecting users from harmful content.
X’s Designation as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP)
X was designated as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) based on its significant user base, exceeding 45 million users or 10% of the EU population. As a VLOP, X is obligated to comply with the comprehensive set of provisions introduced by the DSA since late August 2023. These provisions encompass a wide range of issues, including the dissemination of illegal content, disinformation, gender-based violence, and their impact on fundamental rights, child rights, public security, and mental well-being.
The Request for Information
The European Commission services have initiated an investigation into X’s compliance with the DSA. This investigation encompasses various aspects, including X’s policies and actions related to illegal content notices, complaint handling, risk assessment, and measures taken to mitigate identified risks. The Commission has the authority to request additional information from X to ensure the proper implementation of the law.
Next Steps and Possible Consequences
X is required to provide the requested information to the Commission services by specific deadlines—18th October 2023 for questions concerning its crisis response protocol and 31st October 2023 for other aspects. Based on X’s responses, the Commission will assess the next steps. This could include formally opening proceedings under Article 66 of the DSA.
Compliance and Potential Penalties
It’s important to note that the Commission can impose fines if X provides incorrect, incomplete, or misleading information in response to the request. Failure to respond by the deadline could also lead to the imposition of periodic penalty payments. Compliance with DSA provisions is crucial to avoid legal consequences.
The European Commission’s request for information from X under the Digital Services Act highlights the growing importance of accountability and responsibility for online platforms. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, regulations like the DSA aim to strike a balance between protecting users from harmful content and preserving freedom of expression.
The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how online platforms are held accountable in the EU.
