BRUSSELS: The European Union initiated an inquiry into Meta’s Facebook and Instagram platforms on Tuesday, citing concerns about their failure to counter disinformation ahead of the EU elections scheduled for June.
This investigation falls under the EU’s newly implemented Digital Services Act, a significant legislation aimed at tackling illegal online content and compelling major tech corporations to enhance user protection measures.
The European Commission expressed suspicions that Meta’s oversight of advertisements was inadequate, warning that an upsurge in paid promotions under such circumstances could potentially undermine electoral processes and fundamental rights, including consumer protections.
Of particular concern to EU leaders is the perceived threat of Russian interference, aimed at manipulating public opinion and destabilizing European democracy.
The inquiry aims to ensure that robust measures are implemented to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities in Instagram and Facebook by foreign actors seeking to interfere in EU affairs, stated EU internal market commissioner Thierry Breton.
Commission executive vice president Margrethe Vestager highlighted deficiencies in Meta’s moderation and transparency of advertisement and content moderation procedures.
Facebook and Instagram are among the 23 “very large” online platforms required to comply with the DSA, facing penalties of up to six percent of their global turnover or potential bans for egregious violations. Other platforms subject to these regulations include Amazon, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.
Meta refrained from commenting on the specifics of the investigation’s focus, asserting instead that the company maintains a well-established process for identifying and mitigating risks on its platforms.
A Meta spokesperson expressed willingness to continue cooperating with the European Commission and provide further details regarding their efforts in this regard.
