The European Union is wasting no time in utilizing its new powers under the Digital Services Act (DSA), as the European Commission recently announced an investigation into whether TikTok is violating DSA rules related to the protection of minors on the app. This move comes after concerns were raised about TikTok’s compliance in various areas, such as app addiction, age verification processes, security measures for minors, data transparency, and more.
The European Commission stated that based on the preliminary investigation, including an analysis of a risk assessment report from TikTok and the company’s responses to information requests, they have decided to open formal proceedings against TikTok under the DSA. This marks the second major probe under the new DSA laws, with another major tech company also under investigation for illegal content and misinformation mitigation on its platform.
If TikTok is found to be in violation of DSA rules, it could face penalties of up to 6% of its global earnings. However, the DSA also allows for companies to make commitments to remedy the issues, potentially avoiding hefty fines. The duration of the investigation and potential outcomes depend on various factors, including the complexity of the case and the company’s cooperation with the Commission.
Enforcing DSA Regulations
Enforcing the DSA regulations across various platforms could pose challenges, especially when it comes to interpreting what actions are considered adequate in addressing concerns. Establishing precedents through early cases like the one involving TikTok could set the tone for future investigations and fines, potentially leading to significant changes in how apps operate within the EU. Meta has previously threatened to reevaluate its operations in the region, indicating the potential impact of strict enforcement of DSA rules.
As the EU takes proactive steps in enforcing the Digital Services Act, tech companies like TikTok are under scrutiny for their compliance with regulations aimed at protecting minors and preventing harmful content. The outcome of the investigation into TikTok’s practices could set a precedent for future cases and shape the regulatory landscape for digital platforms in the EU. Only time will tell how these early investigations play out and the implications they have on tech companies operating in the region.
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