X Faces EU Warning for Failing to Combat Harmful Content

Elon Musk’s social media platform X is facing a formal warning from European Union regulators for its failure to combat dangerous content. This development marks the third significant action by EU regulators against major tech companies in recent weeks. The warning, which could lead to fines amounting to 6% of X’s revenue, is expected to be announced by Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton before the EU’s summer recess, according to sources familiar with the case.

The EU’s investigation into X began in December, following concerns over the platform’s handling of content after the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. The European Commission’s preliminary findings indicate that X must make necessary changes to address these issues. If X fails to comply, the Commission could proceed with a formal decision by the end of the year, potentially resulting in significant financial penalties.

The regulatory scrutiny on X is part of a broader effort by the EU to enforce its new Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DSA, which became enforceable last August, sets strict content rules for social media platforms, online marketplaces, and app stores, requiring them to tackle misinformation, hate speech, terrorist propaganda, and unsafe advertisements. The DMA, effective since March 7, targets anti-competitive practices among major tech firms, aiming to prevent market dominance and abusive conduct.

Recent actions by the EU include investigations into Meta Platforms Inc., AliExpress, and ByteDance Ltd.’s TikTok, as well as formal warnings to Apple Inc. and Meta for allegedly unfair practices under the DMA. The EU’s increasing enforcement of these laws underscores its commitment to regulating the digital economy and ensuring the safety and fairness of online platforms.

Source: Elon Musk could be the next target for EU’s big tech crackdown