The European Union has officially accused social media giants Meta and TikTok of breaking the bloc’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The European Commission said that Meta’s Facebook and Instagram platforms, along with TikTok, violated several provisions of the law. This marks the first time that the EU has accused Mark Zuckerberg’s company of breaching the DSA.
The DSA aims to make digital platforms safer by curbing the spread of illegal content and ensuring transparency in how tech companies operate. It also ensures that digital markets in the EU remain fair and competitive.
What did the EU Found?
In its preliminary findings, the European Commission stated that both Meta and TikTok failed to grant researchers “adequate access to public data.”
The EU said the DSA requires major platforms to allow independent researchers to study online risks, such as how much harmful or misleading content children are exposed to. This is considered essential for maintaining online safety and accountability.
The Commission also accused Meta of not providing clear and easy tools for users to report illegal or harmful content. Officials said Meta and TikTok’s interfaces use “dark patterns”, which are design tricks that can confuse or discourage users from making informed choices. “Such practices can be confusing and dissuading,” the Commission said.
Meta and TikTok Response
In a statement, Meta rejected the EU’s claims. “In the European Union, we have introduced changes to our content reporting options, appeals process, and data access tools since the DSA came into force, and we are confident that these solutions match what is required under the law,” the company said.
Meanwhile, TikTok said it is reviewing the Commission’s findings. The company pointed out that complying with the DSA and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) simultaneously can be difficult.
“It said that the requirements to ease data safeguards place the DSA and GDPR in direct tension. It said it isn’t possible to comply with both,” TikTok added, calling for more clarity from the EU.
Why This Matters?
The move highlights growing tensions between Europe and major tech platforms over data privacy, user safety, and algorithm transparency. The EU’s actions could set a strong precedent for global digital regulation.
It also comes amid geopolitical concerns — the inclusion of Chinese-owned ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, may further strain tech relations between the EU, China, and the US.
The development could even irritate US policymakers, including former President Donald Trump, who has often criticized European actions against American tech firms and threatened retaliatory tariffs.
What This Means for Big Tech Regulation?
This case is part of the EU’s broader effort to hold digital giants accountable for content moderation and data transparency. If the violations are confirmed, Meta and TikTok could face heavy fines or forced operational changes in the region.
The final ruling will determine how far Europe can go in enforcing its landmark Digital Services Act and whether tech companies will need to adjust their global policies to comply.
