The Digital Services Act (DSA), a set of regulations mandating specific actions by companies, requires major tech corporations like Alphabet’s Google, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Twitter, TikTok, and others to utilize these rules, which come into effect this Friday, to rebuild trust and enhance safety on their platforms, according to EU industry chief Thierry Breton.
These regulations encompass various obligations for these companies, such as implementing risk management protocols, conducting external and independent audits, sharing data with both authorities and researchers, and adopting a code of conduct. Companies like booking.com, Pinterest, Snap Inc.’s Snapchat, Wikipedia, Zalando, and Alibaba’s AliExpress face more stringent requirements because they have a user base exceeding 45 million.
This category of large online platforms and search engines must submit their inaugural annual risk assessment to the European Commission by the upcoming Friday. Breton emphasized that complying with the DSA shouldn’t be viewed as punitive but rather as an opportunity for these online platforms to strengthen their brand value and reputation as trustworthy entities.
He further highlighted that child protection and combatting disinformation, particularly pro-Russian propaganda, are top priorities for enforcement, especially with European elections approaching.
In addition to fostering trust and safety, the DSA also compels these companies to enhance transparency in their algorithmic processes, address issues related to bots and targeted advertisements that amplify content, and take more robust measures against the sale of illegal, unsafe, or counterfeit products on their platforms.
