The European Commission has released preliminary findings that Facebook, Instagram and TikTok are violating European Union rules. In a report published on Friday, the commission says the three platforms fail to provide researchers with sufficient data as required by the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). This data is essential for scientists studying, among other topics, the effects of content that glorifies violence against children.
The commission also alleges that Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, does not offer adequate methods for reporting illegal content or for challenging content‑moderation decisions. These findings are part of a broader investigation that began in 2024 and also includes a probe into Meta’s compliance with rules protecting minors, specifically the use of addictive algorithms.
European Commission Vice‑President Henna Virkkunen stressed the importance of trust in democracies, stating that platforms must empower users, respect their rights and be open to scrutiny. The preliminary findings aim to ensure that platforms are accountable to users and society, as mandated by EU law. If the commission ultimately determines that the companies have violated EU law, they could face fines of up to 6 % of their total worldwide annual turnover.
The publication of these findings may be used as leverage in ongoing discussions with Meta, which has been criticized for its lack of cooperation. The EU’s decision could also heighten tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has previously described EU legislation as anti‑competitive. The investigation into the three platforms continues, and the commission’s findings could have significant implications for the companies involved.
The EU’s Digital Services Act seeks to regulate online platforms and ensure they operate transparently and accountably. The commission’s enforcement efforts may lead to changes in how Facebook, Instagram and TikTok function and could have a broader impact on the tech industry as a whole.
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