EU’s Digital Services Act Boosts Online Transparency & Control

The European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which came into force in August 2023 for very large online platforms (VLOPs) and search engines (VLOSEs), and February 2024 for all other platforms, aims to make the digital space safer while protecting users’ fundamental rights.

The law covers platforms including Instagram, TikTok, X, LinkedIn, Shein, Booking.com, and other marketplaces, app stores, and online services.

One of the key provisions ensures that users are informed if their content or account is removed or suspended. Platforms are now required to provide clear explanations for such actions, and users can appeal these decisions through internal mechanisms or out-of-court dispute resolution bodies.

Additionally, users can report illegal content, goods, or services directly via platform-based tools, with transparency on the resolution and appeal options.

The DSA also gives users greater control over what they see online. On platforms with over 45 million EU users, non-personalized feeds are now available, allowing users to view content chronologically or based on their own preferences rather than algorithmic suggestions, which helps reduce addictive content consumption.

Advertising practices have also come under stricter scrutiny. Ads must be clearly labelled, reveal the identity of the advertiser, and explain why users are seeing them. Platforms are prohibited from targeting ads based on sensitive data.

Deceptive “dark patterns,” such as manipulating button visibility to encourage purchases, are also forbidden. Marketplaces are required to verify sellers’ identities and display clear contact information to ensure safer transactions.

Enforcement of the DSA is shared between national authorities and the European Commission. Each EU Member State has a Digital Services Coordinator responsible for supervising compliance and handling complaints.

Meanwhile, the European Commission oversees large platforms with significant EU user bases, monitoring compliance, conducting investigations, and, if needed, inspecting company premises to prevent and address violations.

The DSA represents a significant step toward enhancing digital transparency, accountability, and user control, ensuring that platforms operate in a way that respects privacy, reduces harmful practices, and empowers users across the European Union.