A preliminary European Commission investigation has found Meta in breach of the EU's Digital Services Act over the 'addictive' design of Instagram and Facebook, potentially forcing a redesign of both apps and a fine of up to $12 billion.
Key facts
- A preliminary EU investigation found Meta in breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA).
- The finding concerns the 'addictive' design of Instagram and Facebook.
- Meta is likely to be forced to redesign both apps.
- The company could face a fine of up to $12 billion.
- The European Commission said Meta 'did not adequately assess the risks' involved.
Meta is in breach of the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) over the ‘addictive’ design of its Instagram and Facebook apps, according to a preliminary investigation reported by The Verge.
The finding could have significant consequences for the company. According to The Verge, Meta is likely to be forced to redesign both apps and could face a fine of up to $12 billion.
The European Commission said Meta ‘did not adequately assess the risks’ associated with the design of its platforms, The Verge reported. The assessment of such risks is a central obligation under the DSA, the EU’s rulebook for regulating large online platforms.
At this stage the investigation is preliminary, meaning the Commission has set out its concerns but has not yet issued a final decision. The reported potential penalty and redesign requirement reflect the possible outcomes rather than confirmed measures.
The case adds to the mounting regulatory scrutiny Meta faces in Europe as officials apply the Digital Services Act to some of the world’s largest social media platforms.
Why it matters
The EU's Digital Services Act is one of the world's most far-reaching attempts to regulate how large online platforms are designed and operated. A finding against Meta could force changes to how billions of people use Instagram and Facebook and set a precedent for how regulators treat 'addictive' design features.
Frequently asked questions
What has the EU found against Meta?
A preliminary European Commission investigation found Meta in breach of the Digital Services Act over the 'addictive' design of Instagram and Facebook, according to The Verge.
How large could the fine be?
According to The Verge, Meta could face a fine of up to $12 billion.
Will Instagram and Facebook change?
The Verge reports that Meta is likely to be forced to redesign both apps, though the investigation remains at a preliminary stage.