The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, last year launched an investigation to assess whether X violates the Digital Services Act (DSA), a law requiring Big Tech companies to better police content on their platforms.
According to CNBC, the body’s initial position, published on Friday, suggests that X broke the rules regarding “dark patterns”“, transparency of advertising and access to data.
What are dark patterns
Dark patterns are a deceptive tactic designed to trick people into using certain products and services..
The Commission found that X’s use blue check mark for verified accounts is not in line with industry practicesand, because anyone can subscribe and get verified status. He added that there is evidence that Malicious actors abuse verified status to defraud users.
Advertising transparency under the EC’s microscope
The Commission also accused X of introducing construction elements and barriers to advertising transparency and she stated that does not provide researchers with access to its public data, as required by the DSA.
X did not immediately respond to CNBC’s request for comment.
If the commission’s position is confirmed, X may be fined up to 6% of its total annual turnover.
