EU finds Musk’s X in breach of DSA online content rules

X has been found in violation of EU online content regulations, marking a significant development that could prompt hefty fines and operational adjustments for the company. The European Commission’s decision, announced on Friday, follows a thorough seven-month investigation under the Digital Services Act (DSA). This legislation mandates stricter measures for large online platforms and search engines to combat illegal content and safeguard public security.

The EU regulatory body specifically criticized X for employing dark patterns, lacking transparency in advertising practices, and restricting access to data crucial for research purposes. Of particular concern were X’s verified accounts, identified by a blue checkmark, which were deemed misleading and detrimental to users’ ability to discern authentic interactions.

Moreover, X has been accused of failing to adhere to DSA requirements mandating a searchable and reliable repository for advertisements, further complicating transparency issues. The Commission also highlighted instances where X allegedly obstructed researchers from accessing essential public data, raising concerns about accountability and data accessibility within the platform.

X now faces a period to formally respond to these charges, during which it must mount a defense against potential penalties that could amount to as much as 6% of its global revenue if found guilty of breaching DSA regulations. EU industry chief Thierry Breton emphasized that while X has the opportunity to defend its practices, strict fines and substantial operational changes may be imposed should the Commission’s findings be upheld.

Furthermore, the European Commission disclosed ongoing investigations into X’s handling of illegal content dissemination and its strategies to combat disinformation. These parallel inquiries underscore the EU’s commitment to ensuring compliance with digital regulations aimed at safeguarding user rights and enhancing online safety across platforms like X. As the case unfolds, the outcome will likely set a precedent for regulatory oversight of social media giants operating within the European Union, potentially reshaping the landscape of digital governance and accountability in the tech industry.