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EU Scrutinizes WhatsApp: Potential Reclassification as a Social Media Platform
Brussels is preparing to subject WhatsApp to increased regulatory scrutiny,potentially reclassifying the messaging app as a major social media platform. This shift stems from growing concerns regarding the platform’s reach and its role in disseminating information, and could have significant implications for Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company.
What’s Driving the Regulatory Review?
The European Commission is examining whether WhatsApp should be designated as a “Very Large Online Platform” (VLOP) under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA, enacted to create a safer digital space for users, imposes stricter obligations on VLOPs, particularly concerning the moderation of illegal and harmful content. A key factor in this assessment is user numbers. According to the European Commission, approximately 51.7 million people within the EU utilize WhatsApp channels monthly [Reuters]. This exceeds the threshold of 45 million users that triggers VLOP status.
The Implications of VLOP Designation
If WhatsApp is classified as a VLOP, Meta will face a more rigorous set of rules. These include:
- Enhanced Content Moderation: More proactive measures to identify and remove illegal content,such as hate speech and counterfeit goods.
- Increased Transparency: Greater transparency regarding algorithms used to recommend content and the reasons behind content moderation decisions.
- Risk Assessments: Regular assessments of systemic risks, including the spread of disinformation and the impact on fundamental rights.
- Autonomous Audits: Subjecting its systems to independent audits to ensure compliance with the DSA.
Non-compliance with the DSA can result in substantial penalties, potentially reaching up to 6% of a company’s global annual revenue [European Commission – Digital Services Act].
Broader Context: Meta’s Existing Regulatory Challenges
This isn’t the first time Meta’s platforms have faced increased EU regulation. Facebook and Instagram, also owned by Meta, have already been designated as VLOPs and are subject to the DSA’s stringent requirements. The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) also targets large tech companies, aiming to prevent anti-competitive practices and
