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The EU has initiated an investigation into X, formerly Twitter, to address the issue of illegal content spreading on its platform, particularly in relation to terrorist activities and violence. This investigation comes in the aftermath of the attacks by Hamas against Israel.
EU officials have sent a series of questions to X, which the social media platform must respond to by next week, according to sources familiar with the matter. This formal probe is the first to be launched under the newly approved Digital Services Act. Prior to this, EU commissioner Thierry Breton expressed concerns about X being used for disseminating illegal content and disinformation.
If X fails to provide a complete and accurate response, it could face penalties or fines of up to 5 percent of its daily global turnover, as stipulated by the authorities. The EU investigators are also interested in understanding X’s crisis management protocols and measures to combat misinformation. The company is required to submit its response to the commission by the end of the month.
This move signifies the first utilization of the powers granted by the DSA by the regulators in Brussels. The DSA outlines guidelines for how tech giants should regulate the internet in order to ensure the safety of European citizens online.
The EU’s probe follows concerns raised regarding the proliferation of misinformation on X regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, which included graphic imagery and garnered millions of views.
According to EU regulations, X is classified as a “very large online platform” and thus carries special responsibilities in terms of content monitoring on the internet.
On Tuesday, Breton cautioned Musk about the need for X to implement appropriate and effective measures to address disinformation. Breton stated, “We have received reports from credible sources about potentially illegal content circulating on your platform, despite being flagged by relevant authorities.”
In response to the commissioner’s letter, Musk commented, “Our policy is based on openness and transparency, which I know the EU supports. Please provide a list of the alleged violations on X, so that the public can assess them. Merci beaucoup.”
The commissioner, who enforces the DSA, replied, “You are well aware of the reports from both users and authorities regarding fake content and the promotion of violence. It’s up to you to prove that you take action in line with your words.”
X is not the only company facing pressure from the EU. On Thursday, Breton also sent a letter to TikTok, reminding the platform of its responsibilities under the DSA and urging increased enforcement.
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