EU Hits X with Landmark €120 Million Fine Over Deceptive Blue Checkmarks

The European Commission has fined Elon Musk’s X €120 million. This is the first penalty issued under the EU’s new Digital Services Act. The action targets deceptive design practices on the social media platform.The fine centers on X’s “blue checkmark” verification system. Officials call it misleading. This decision sets a major precedent for regulating big tech in Europe.

Breaking Down the Landmark Digital Services Act Violation

According to the European Commission, X’s current verification system deceives users. Anyone can now buy a blue checkmark with an X Premium subscription. This bypasses meaningful identity checks previously required.The Commission stated this practice violates DSA rules against deceptive design. It makes judging account authenticity difficult for users. This can increase exposure to scams and impersonation fraud.Two other key violations were cited. X’s advertising repository lacks required transparency. The Commission also found X failed to provide proper data access for researchers.The European Commission launched this investigation two years ago. It examined risks in content moderation and advertising. This fine is the formal result of that lengthy probe.

Broader Impact and X’s Required Response

This ruling signals the EU’s strict enforcement of the DSA. It shows regulators are willing to penalize major platforms. Other tech giants will likely review their own compliance closely.For users, the decision underscores ongoing concerns about platform trust. The meaning of a “verified” account has been fundamentally challenged. This impacts public discourse and information reliability.X now faces specific deadlines to address the violations. The company has 60 days to propose a solution for the blue checkmark issue. It has 90 days to present a plan for ad transparency and data access.

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The landmark EU fine against X establishes a new enforcement reality under the Digital Services Act. It pressures all large online platforms to prioritize user transparency and safety from the start.

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What is the Digital Services Act (DSA)?

The DSA is a landmark EU law regulating online platforms. It aims to create a safer digital space. The law focuses on transparency, user rights, and accountability for very large platforms.

Why was X fined €120 million?

The fine is for three main breaches under the DSA. The primary issue is X’s deceptive “blue checkmark” system. The company also failed on ad transparency and researcher data access rules.

What does the “blue checkmark” mean on X now?

Today, a blue check simply indicates an X Premium paid subscription. It does not mean the user’s identity has been officially verified. This change created the confusion the EU is penalizing.

What changes does X have to make?

X must fix its verification system to avoid deceiving users. It must also make its ad repository transparent and accessible. Finally, it must grant researchers meaningful access to public data.

Can the EU fine other tech companies?

Yes. The DSA applies to all major platforms operating in the EU. This fine against X is a clear warning. Other companies could face similar penalties for non-compliance.

What happens if X doesn’t comply?

The DSA allows for periodic penalty payments for ongoing non-compliance. In severe cases, fines can reach up to 6% of a company’s global annual turnover. The Commission can also impose other remedial actions.