In the framework of the Digital Services Regulation, the European Commission has sent requests with new information to 17 technology companies on how to protect their users.
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The European Commission is slightly expanding the scope of information requests for this round. In addition to the established sources of information, such as the Apple, η Google, η Microsoft and Meta, the requests have also affected AliExpress, Zalando, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok and many others.
A Reuters report on Thursday morning said the data requested includes information related to the European elections, how to identify counterfeit goods, and information on how to deal with illegal content and the sale of illegal goods by platforms. It's not clear why Apple is involved in this round of claims, but it's probably related to the way it manages the iMessage or perhaps with cloned applications in the app store.
In total, 17 companies have to provide the required information by 9 February.
The request for information follows one made on 14 December 2023. This request appeared to be a bit broader. Reports say the request covered "systemic risks associated with the services in particular with regard to the dissemination of illegal and harmful content, any negative impact on the exercise of fundamental rights, as well as any negative impact on public safety, public health and minors.“
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The Digital Services Package (DSA) is a legislative framework that will impose restrictions on how tech giants operate. In this case, the DSA focuses more on content and monitoring of online platforms.
Overall, the new law on the protection of rights in the internet imposes additional responsibility on online platforms and technology companies to control content, including reporting and removing illegal content.
Under the provisions of the DSA, regulatory measures will be imposed on companies by level. The largest companies, including those with more than 45 million active users across the Europe, will face the greatest impact. Apple falls into this category, but has argued that iMessage specifically is not affected.
In addition, the DSA will prohibit "dark templates" or misleading user interfaces, such as those that try to force users to register on a platform or make purchases through the app.
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The Digital Services Act (DSA) has several objectives. First, it wants to strengthen the single market by creating a clear and coherent framework for digital services across the European Union.
Second, the DSA aims to protection consumers and users of digital services, ensuring that companies are responsible for the security of the products and services they offer.
Thirdly, the DSA seeks to ensure transparency in digital services by requiring companies to provide clear information about how they operate and how they products and their services.
Finally, the DSA seeks to strengthen democracy by protecting freedom of expression and pluralism on the internet, while at the same time combating misinformation and illegal content.
Source: appleinsider
