- The European Union launched infringement proceedings against X for alleged breaches of transparency obligations and duties to counter illegal content and disinformation under the new Digital Services Act (DSA).
- The investigation will focus on X’s compliance with stopping illegal content, combating information manipulation, transparency measures, and the platform’s “deceptive” blue check mark design.
- X said it remains committed to complying with the DSA, but faces potential hefty fines if found in violation. This marks the first major test of the EU’s new online content rules.
The European Union has launched infringement proceedings against X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter, over its alleged failure to combat disinformation and illegal content. This marks the first such probe under the EU’s new Digital Services Act (DSA).
Details of the EU Probe
The EU’s regulator, Thierry Breton, said the proceedings are in response to suspected breaches by X of its transparency obligations and duties to counter illegal content and disinformation. The probe also cites X’s “deceptive design” of its blue verification check marks.
The EU launched the proceedings based on its preliminary investigation of X’s risk assessment report, transparency report, and responses to formal information requests. The DSA requires large platforms like X to limit disinformation while protecting free speech. Fines can reach up to 6% of global annual revenues for violations.
The EU’s Focus Areas
The investigation will focus on several areas:
- X’s compliance with duties to stop illegal content
- Effectiveness of X’s steps against information manipulation
- X’s transparency measures
- The platform’s “deceptive” blue check mark design
X’s Response
X said in a statement it remains committed to complying with the DSA and cooperating with regulators. The company stated its goal is to create a “safe and inclusive environment” on the platform while protecting free expression.
What’s Next
The Commission will continue gathering evidence. The DSA does not impose a deadline for completing such proceedings. This probe was foreshadowed by an EU warning to X, Meta and TikTok last October about disinformation.
Conclusion
This marks the first major test of the EU’s new online content rules. The outcome could impact how platforms balance free speech with combating misinformation. X insists it is working to comply, but faces hefty potential fines if found in violation.
