EU evaluates X’s approach to Israel-Hamas misinformation

The European Union (EU) Investigates X’s Moderation of Illegal Content and Disinformation

The European Union (EU) has launched an investigation into X (formerly Twitter) for its inadequate moderation of illegal content and disinformation in the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas conflict. This move, reported by Financial Times, follows a letter from EU Commissioner Thierry Breton to X owner Elon Musk expressing concerns about misinformation handling. This formal probe marks the first under the newly established Digital Services Act (DSA), which mandates platforms in Europe to monitor harmful content and impose substantial fines for non-compliance.

Inquiries and Compliance Actions for X

EU officials have sent inquiries to X, giving the company until October 18 to respond. The commission will decide on next steps based on the evaluation of X’s replies. The DSA, enacted in 2022, mandates social platforms to actively moderate and remove illegal content to avoid penalties that could amount to “five percent of the company’s daily global turnover.”

X’s Response and Actions

Researchers and fact-checkers have raised alarms about misinformation on X following the Hamas attacks on Israel. Commissioner Breton warned Musk about harmful content on X and emphasized compliance with the DSA. Musk’s response hinted at transparency, prompting Breton to urge X to demonstrate commitment to addressing fake content and violence glorification.

Yaccarino, X’s representative, mentioned reallocating resources and adjusting internal teams to tackle moderation challenges linked to the Middle East conflict. X has reportedly taken down or labeled tens of thousands of pieces of content since the conflict began. The company also removed hundreds of Hamas-associated accounts and collaborates with counter-terrorism groups. Yaccarino highlighted enhancements to Community Notes and fact-check notifications for user engagement.

Future Steps and Beyond

The EU’s inquiry also probes X’s crisis response readiness and misinformation management protocols. X is expected to provide detailed responses by the end of October. Beyond X, Commissioner Breton has reminded Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, of their DSA obligations in light of the recent turmoil in the Middle East.