Why it matters:
This marks a milestone in the enforcement of the EU’s Digital Services Act, signaling Brussels’ readiness to take tough measures against major tech platforms. The move against X could have wide‑ranging implications for other technology companies operating in Europe.
The big picture:
Since 2023, the EU has been investigating potential violations by X.
The focus has been on illegal content, information manipulation, and lack of transparency in advertising.
The fine is part of a broader EU effort to rein in the power of digital platforms and protect users from systemic risks.
Key points:
- The Commission ruled it misleading, as any user can purchase it without meaningful identity verification.
- Missing key details, such as ad content, subject matter, and the legal identity of the payer, make it harder to track fake campaigns and coordinated information operations.
- Internal rules at X have blocked qualified independent researchers from accessing public data.
- 60 working days to fix the blue checkmark issue; 90 working days to address advertising transparency and researcher access.
- Continued non‑compliance could trigger additional periodic fines
Go deeper:
EU Launches Formal Investigation Into Google for Suspected News Content Bias
Neda Sajjadi - ahmad shirzadian
