EU Accuses Meta and TikTok of Digital Services Act Breaches, Threatens Hefty Fines

Major Platforms Face EU Scrutiny Over Compliance Issues

The European Commission has formally charged technology giants Meta and TikTok with violations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), according to official reports. Sources indicate that both companies could face substantial financial penalties—potentially up to 6% of their total worldwide annual turnover—if they fail to address the identified compliance issues within the specified timeframe.

Major Platforms Face EU Scrutiny Over Compliance Issues
Research Data Access Under Fire
Content Reporting Mechanisms Deemed Inadequate
Appeal Process Limitations Identified
Company Responses and Next Steps
Broader Regulatory Context

Research Data Access Under Fire

The Commission’s investigation found that Facebook, Instagram and TikTok had implemented what it described as “burdensome procedures and tools” for researchers seeking access to public data, the report states. This allegedly results in researchers receiving incomplete or unreliable information when studying critical topics such as minors’ exposure to illegal or harmful content online. Analysts suggest that transparent data access represents a fundamental requirement under the DSA framework, designed to enable independent oversight of platform practices.

Content Reporting Mechanisms Deemed Inadequate

According to the Commission’s findings, Meta faces additional charges regarding its content reporting systems. Reports indicate that Facebook and Instagram employ mechanisms requiring multiple steps to flag illegal content, including potentially child sexual abuse materials. The Commission reportedly identified what it characterized as “dark interface designs” that make reporting confusing and potentially dissuade users from completing the process. These factors allegedly violate DSA requirements mandating that online platforms provide EU users with straightforward, user-friendly reporting tools.

Appeal Process Limitations Identified

The investigation further revealed concerns about how both Facebook and Instagram handle user appeals, according to the Commission’s statements. Sources indicate that neither platform currently allows users to adequately explain their positions or submit supporting evidence during appeals of content removal or account suspension decisions. This limitation reportedly undermines the effectiveness of the appeal process, which represents another core DSA requirement designed to protect user rights.

Company Responses and Next Steps

Meta has reportedly disputed the Commission’s findings, stating through official channels that it has implemented numerous changes to align with DSA requirements since the regulation took effect. The company expressed confidence that its current solutions comply with EU law, according to their published response.

Meanwhile, TikTok acknowledged it was reviewing the Commission’s findings but raised concerns about potential conflicts between DSA data access requirements and existing data protection obligations under the GDPR. The company is reportedly seeking regulatory guidance on reconciling these competing obligations.

Both companies will have opportunity to examine the investigation files and submit written responses before any final determinations are made. The Commission will reportedly only impose financial penalties if it ultimately determines the companies remain non-compliant after this procedural phase.

Broader Regulatory Context

This action represents part of the European Union’s broader effort to enforce its landmark digital regulations, according to industry analysts. The DSA establishes comprehensive rules for how online platforms must handle illegal content, protect users, and ensure transparency. These charges against major platforms signal the Commission’s commitment to rigorous enforcement, potentially setting important precedents for how digital regulations are applied globally.