European Commission steps up probe into X over content moderation
EU Investigates Elon Musk's Social Media Network X
The European Commission is intensifying its investigation into Elon Musk's social media platform, X, to determine if it has violated EU content moderation rules. This investigation, which began in December 2023, involves requests for information and a mandate to retain relevant documents.
Details of the Investigation
The EU executive has asked X to submit internal documentation by February 15 regarding its recommender system, which suggests content to users, and any recent modifications to it. Henna Virkkunen, the EU's digital chief, stated that these steps aim to clarify X's compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).
Retention Order and Technical Access
The Commission has issued a "retention order" requiring X to preserve internal documents and information about future changes to its recommender algorithms from January 17 to the end of 2025. Additionally, the Commission has requested access to certain technical interfaces of X.
These measures will enable the Commission to consider all relevant facts in assessing systemic risks and their mitigation under the DSA.
Doubts Revealed
EU
The EU, or European Union, is a group of 27 countries in Europe that work together on various issues like trade, laws, and security. They make rules to ensure things are fair and safe for people living in these countries.
Elon Musk
Elon Musk is a famous businessman known for creating and leading companies like Tesla, which makes electric cars, and SpaceX, which builds rockets. He is also involved in social media through a platform called X.
Social Media Network X
Social Media Network X is a platform owned by Elon Musk where people can share messages, pictures, and videos with others. It's similar to other social media sites like Facebook or Twitter.
Content Moderation
Content moderation is the process of monitoring and managing what people post on social media to ensure it follows certain rules. This helps prevent harmful or inappropriate content from being shared.
European Commission
The European Commission is a part of the EU that makes sure countries and companies follow EU laws. They investigate and enforce rules to protect people and businesses in Europe.
Digital Services Act
The Digital Services Act is a law in the EU that sets rules for online services to keep users safe. It requires platforms to manage harmful content and protect users' rights.
Retention Order
A retention order is a legal requirement to keep certain documents or data for a specific period. In this case, X must keep documents about its algorithms until the end of 2025.
Algorithms
Algorithms are sets of rules or instructions that computers follow to solve problems or make decisions. On social media, they help decide what content to show users based on their interests.
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