Meta’s popular messaging service WhatsApp has published user numbers above the Digital Services Act threshold, European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier said on Friday. Commission is reportedly still determining whether WhatsApp’s services fall under the scope of the regulation.
Mr Regnier said that while private messaging is not covered by the digital rules, open channels that “act more as a social media platform” could be. The spokesman added that the Commission is actively looking into the matter and a future designation cannot be excluded.
Content moderation, advertising ban, and more
Unlike small providers, digital platforms falling under the scope of Digital Services Act (DSA) have many more responsibilities. These include, as an example, the obligation to counter and quickly react to illegal content (fake news, propaganda, hate speech, harassment and child abuse). Under DSA, companies must use content moderation tools that include the option to contest decisions when users’ content is removed or restricted. Advertising for children and the use of sensitive personal data to target ads (gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or political beliefs) are prohibited.
The Digital Services Act focuses on creating a safer online environment for digital users and companies, and on protecting fundamental rights in the digital space. DSA has been adopted by the Council on 4 October 2022, the rules apply since 17 February 2024.
