EC investigates Meta to ensure it does not counter disinformation to Europeans

Brussels (EFE).- The European Commission opened an investigation this Tuesday against the American company Meta, finding that it was not doing enough to combat disinformation from foreign agents, mainly Russia, in the wake of the European elections in June on social networks. Not taking steps. Facebook and Instagram.

“The Commission has created the means to protect European citizens from disinformation and personal manipulation by third countries. If we suspect a violation of any rule, we take action. “This is true at all times, but especially in times of democratic elections,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement.

“Large digital platforms must meet their obligations to devote sufficient resources to this and today’s decision shows that we take compliance seriously. Protecting our democracy is a common struggle with our member states,” he added.

Avoid the spread of misleading advertising

In particular, Brussels believes that the company has failed to comply with Community rules that require it to avoid the spread of misleading advertising, as well as potential disinformation campaigns, and is concerned because it interferes with electoral processes. And “may pose a risk” to the fundamentals. rights as well as for consumer protection,” the commission explained in a statement.

He is also concerned about Meta’s plan to eliminate CrowdTangle – a public reporting tool that allows researchers, journalists and civil society as a whole to conduct election monitoring – without replacing it with another suitable tool.

digital services law

Furthermore, they believe that the tools Facebook and Instagram give users to notify them of the presence of illegal content fail to comply with the requirements established by the Digital Services Law, the standard by which The EU forces large platforms to deal with illegal content. Internet.

“It is in no one’s interests that Meta makes money from advertising exploited by cunning Russian actors. “Not only is digital service a legal obligation and a political commitment, but it is also wrong to make money from it,” said a community source.

The source assured that in the talks the Commission has had with Meta since September last year, the company has shown a “constructive commitment” to address the concerns of the Community Executive.

The opening of this investigation allows the Commission to adopt a full range of measures, including a fine of up to 6% of Meta’s global turnover.