The European Union has launched a formal investigation into Meta, the parent company of social media giants Facebook and Instagram, due to concerns about the platforms' impact on children.
Meta Faces New EU Child Safety Probe
According to the latest press release, the European Commission is investigating whether Meta has adequately protected children on its platforms in accordance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).
The regulation requires online platforms, particularly those classified as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), to implement safeguards to protect the safety and privacy of young users, such as preventing access to inappropriate content and addressing addictive behavior.
Failure to comply with DSA obligations could result in substantial fines, potentially amounting to 6% of Meta's global revenue. The company's latest earnings report announced $40.11 billion in revenue.
The investigation follows growing concerns surrounding the addictive nature of Meta's platforms and their potential harm to the mental and physical well-being of young users.
This picture taken on April 27, 2023 in Toulouse, southwestern France, shows a screen displaying the Meta logo and the European flag. LIONEL BONAVENTURE/AFP via Getty Images
Meta Child Safety Concerns
CNBC reports that the EU is particularly worried about the addictive features of Facebook and Instagram, which may stimulate behavioral addictions and lead to what is referred to as 'rabbit-hole effects'.
Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of age verification methods and privacy risks associated with Meta's recommendation algorithms.
In response to the investigation, a Meta spokesperson told the media that the company is committed to providing safe online experiences for young people. The company claims to have developed over 50 tools and policies to protect minors.
However, the European Commission remains unconvinced, stating that Meta has not done enough to mitigate the risks posed to young Europeans.
Thierry Breton, the EU's Commissioner for Internal Market, stressed the seriousness of the issue in a statement, highlighting the need to prioritize the well-being of children.
The Commission has announced plans to conduct an in-depth investigation into Meta's child protection measures as a matter of priority. This investigation will assess Meta's compliance with DSA obligations, particularly concerning interface design, access to inappropriate content, and privacy safeguards.
The European Commission's formal proceedings are based on a preliminary analysis of Meta's risk assessment report, publicly available reports, and the Commission's own review.
Meta's child safety practices have been scrutinized not only in the EU but also in other countries. In the United States, the attorney general of New Mexico has filed a lawsuit against Meta, claiming that Facebook and Instagram facilitate child sexual abuse and trafficking.
Meta has countered these allegations, stating that it employs advanced technology and preventive measures to combat such activities.
