EU’s Digital Services Act Names Tech Companies That Must Follow its Latest Rules; Violators To Be Fined

The European Union is now giving tech companies a heads up as its Digital Services Act is currently setting up its regional designations, with 19 services asked to adhere to its laws. Failure to comply will result in fines for different violations and laws they break, with global companies mentioned by the European Commission for this implementation.

The new Digital Services Act would further increase internet regulation and moderation to help the public with better access to the web, avoiding targeted ads, access to their sensitive information, and more.

EU Names 19 Tech Services and Companies Need Adhere to its DSA

As per the European Union's release today, the organization designates 19 tech companies and services under its Digital Services Act.

The EU said that these chosen names have large operations in the country, with over 45 million daily active users in the region as of February 17.

This includes Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) from the United States and other parts of the world.

Google made it to the list four times with its services, including YouTube, Google Search, Google Play, Google Shopping, and Google Maps. Meta was also listed on Facebook and Instagram.

Microsoft's Bing search engine and LinkedIn also make the list, alongside the Apple App Store, Amazon Store, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, and Wikipedia.

Jack Ma's Alibaba AliExpress app also becomes a part of this, as well as Booking.com, and Germany's Zalando platform.

Digital Services Act: EC's Safe Internet Law

According to Ars Technica, the EC centers on a safer internet experience for its constituents under the DSA. Its regulations highlight its prevention of targeted ads based on demographics and more, as well as easily-understandable terms and conditions.

The DSA also pushes for better content regulation on these platforms, centering on limiting disinformation to being available online, transparency, and accountability.

Europe's Tech Regulations

Europe comes as a unified front for its regulations for the different industries available in its countries, with significant laws and actions towards a safe internet experience for users. One of the most significant pushes of the European Union is looking into AI technology with the likes of ChatGPT and other AI-powered services, with a new set of rules coming.

It also looks into the many issues with data and information from different online services and tech companies, one where it also joined hands with the US in its TikTok regulation. After the callout to the Chinese social media app, TikTok claimed that its "Project Clover" will help adhere to EU's laws in data and privacy, adding new security measures.

The EU remains a significant force in regulating the operations of tech companies and the internet in its countries. The Digital Services Act aims to help its citizens have a safe online experience. These 19 tech services and companies would have to adhere in four months' time, or significant violations would put them in deep waters with the EU.