Recent events have brought the Digital Services Act (DSA) into the spotlight, particularly as the European Commission intensifies its scrutiny of major tech companies like Meta and X Corp. Investigations have emerged regarding potential violations of the DSA, including issues related to content moderation and the impact of paid verification systems. Additionally, the act has been referenced in the context of mental health risks associated with social media, with officials emphasizing the need for protections for children online. These developments highlight the EU's commitment to enforcing the DSA and holding tech giants accountable.
The Digital Services Act is a comprehensive regulatory framework introduced by the European Union to modernize its digital landscape. Announced in December 2020 and officially adopted in 2022, the DSA aims to update the e-Commerce Directive from 2000, addressing the challenges posed by the rapid evolution of digital services. It establishes clear responsibilities for online platforms regarding content moderation, user safety, and transparency, particularly for large tech firms. The DSA seeks to create a safer online environment while ensuring that users' rights are protected, marking a significant step in the EU's digital policy.