Irish regulator probes X platform for allegedly violating EU rules by failing to provide user-friendly content moderation appeal systems
DUBLIN: Ireland’s media regulator has launched an investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X over suspected violations of European Union digital regulations.
The Media Commission announced it is examining whether X failed to provide users with adequate opportunities to appeal content moderation decisions.
“Concerns exist that X is not giving people the opportunity to appeal content moderation decisions and that X’s internal complaint-handling systems are not easy to access and user-friendly, as required by law,” the commission stated.
This marks the first investigation initiated by the Irish regulator under the European Digital Services Act (DSA).
The DSA classifies X as a “very large online platform” subject to enhanced regulatory controls.
Digital services commissioner John Evans said the investigation will assess whether X properly informed users of their rights to challenge platform decisions.
“We will not hesitate to intervene and where appropriate take enforcement action to protect the safety of users in Ireland and across the European Union,” Evans declared.
The probe could result in fines reaching up to 6% of the company’s global revenues if violations are confirmed.
Brussels had previously opened a separate investigation into X in late 2023 focusing on misinformation concerns.
National regulators in countries hosting company European headquarters oversee compliance with specific DSA provisions.
X maintains its European operational headquarters in Dublin, placing it under Irish regulatory jurisdiction. – AFP
