EU Commission Requests Data on Recommender Systems from YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok
The European Commission has issued a request for information to YouTube, Snapchat, and TikTok under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The platforms are required to disclose details about the design and functioning of their recommender systems. This request aims to ensure these systems do not pose risks to users’ mental health or facilitate the spread of harmful content due to their engagement-based algorithms.
YouTube and Snapchat must provide comprehensive information on the parameters their algorithms use to recommend content. They are also asked to explain how these systems might amplify systemic risks, including those affecting electoral processes, civic discourse, and users’ mental well-being. Additionally, the Commission seeks details on measures to mitigate the spread of illegal content, such as illegal drugs and hate speech.
TikTok has been specifically asked to outline the measures it has implemented to prevent service manipulation by malicious actors. The platform must also address how it mitigates risks related to elections, media pluralism, and civic discourse, potentially exacerbated by its recommender systems. All three platforms are required to submit the requested information by 15 November.
Failure to provide accurate and complete information could result in fines under Article 74 (2) of the DSA. Non-compliance may lead to formal proceedings under Article 66 of the DSA, and periodic penalty payments could be imposed for missed deadlines. The Commission’s focus on compliance with the DSA provisions concerning recommender systems is part of a broader effort to regulate very large online platforms and search engines.
