The digital landscape of the European Union is poised for a dramatic shift. The landmark Digital Services Act (DSA) is now in full force, ushering in an age of accountability, safety, and fairness for netizens across the EU. No longer will giant tech platforms operate with unchecked power and from February 17, 2024, the rules apply to all online platforms that can be used in the EU.
The DSA places a spotlight on online platforms of all sizes. Its goal? Protecting users from the dangers of illegal content, safeguarding minors from exploitative advertising, and empowering everyday internet users with more control and understanding of the digital forces that shape their experiences. Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age, comments in the following way:
“The Digital Services Act rules apply to all online platforms accessed by users in the EU. Users, Member States and platforms can now use the tools under the DSA to shape a safer and more transparent online world. This is a big milestone that reflects our fundamental EU values and principles.”
Key Changes Under the Digital Services Act:
- Taking Down the Bad: A streamlined process empowers users to easily flag illegal material. Platforms must act swiftly to remove content that promotes illicit goods, services, or activities.
- Minors First: Gone are the days when companies could bombard children with targeted ads using private data. Ads of this nature become a thing of the past as the DSA prioritises the protection of minors.
- Ads: No More Mysteries: Users will finally know why an advertisement pops up in their feed. Platforms must disclose who paid for an ad and the factors leading to it being shown to a specific user.
- Sensitive Targeting Banned: It’s illegal to exploit sensitive data like a user’s religion, political views, or sexual orientation for advertising purposes.
- Your Voice Matters: Filing a complaint with a platform should be easy, with clear guidance and accessible contact methods.
To ensure these sweeping changes take full effect, the European Commission is teaming up with authorities in all EU member states. This powerful alliance will enforce the new rules, ensuring internet users throughout the EU experience the same positive changes.
The digital landscape is shifting, with platforms facing real scrutiny. For EU internet users, this is the dawn of a safer, fairer online world.
Source: The Digital Services Act
New Book! Now available in print, ebook and audiobook
Printed edition available on Bokus.com and Adlibris.se etc. more is on the way
The eBook available is also available in Google Play Books, Apple Books and Bokon.se more is on the way
