Brussels, EU - In a move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of upcoming EU elections, the European Union has initiated an investigation into Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms. Concerns have been raised regarding the platforms' alleged failure to effectively combat disinformation ahead of the June elections.
The investigation falls under the purview of the EU's new Digital Services Act (DSA), a groundbreaking legislation designed to tackle illegal online content and enhance user protection measures. The European Commission has expressed suspicions regarding Meta's moderation of advertisements, citing potential inadequacies that could undermine electoral processes and fundamental rights, including consumer protection.
Of particular concern to EU leaders are fears of foreign interference, notably from Russia, aiming to manipulate public opinion and disrupt European democracy. The probe aims to address vulnerabilities within Instagram and Facebook to prevent such interference, stated EU internal market commissioner Thierry Breton.
Commission executive vice president Margrethe Vestager highlighted concerns over Meta's moderation practices and transparency regarding advertisements and content moderation procedures. Facebook and Instagram, alongside 21 other major online platforms, are subject to the DSA's regulations, which include penalties of up to six percent of global turnover for non-compliance.
Meta, in response to the investigation, emphasized its commitment to risk mitigation on its platforms and pledged cooperation with the European Commission. The company's recent decision to shut down CrowdTangle, a tool vital for tracking misinformation, has drawn scrutiny from the EU, prompting Meta to provide explanations within five working days.
Brussels' apprehension stems from Meta's extensive reach within the EU, with both platforms boasting over 260 million monthly active users. The investigation encompasses Meta's efforts to minimize political content in its platforms' recommender systems, raising concerns about compliance with DSA transparency rules.
Additionally, the EU questions the accessibility and user-friendliness of Meta's mechanism to flag illegal content. While there is no set deadline for the investigation's conclusion, the EU's heightened regulatory stance reflects its determination to hold tech giants accountable under the DSA.
The investigation into Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms adds to a series of regulatory actions aimed at reining in big tech companies. With the DSA as a cornerstone, Brussels demonstrates its readiness to enforce stringent measures to uphold online integrity and user rights.
More: https://techxplore.com/news/2024-04-eu-probes-facebook-instagram-election.html
