The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to regulate the online world and protect internet users’ rights. The act is a response to growing concerns about online harm and the power of digital platforms, such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter. The European Union (EU) proposed the DSA in December 2020, and it is still in the early stages of development.
The proposed legislation includes several key provisions that will impact how digital services operate in the EU. One of the primary goals of the DSA is to ensure that digital platforms take responsibility for the content posted on their sites. This includes implementing systems to detect and remove illegal content, such as hate speech and terrorist propaganda.
Another aspect of the DSA is that it aims to level the playing field for smaller digital services by increasing transparency and competition. For example, the act will require digital platforms to provide more information about how they rank content and advertise products.
The DSA also includes provisions for protecting user data and privacy. Digital platforms will be required to give users more control over their data, including the ability to easily delete it or transfer it to another platform. Platforms will also be required to disclose more information about how user data is used and shared with third parties.
Finally, the DSA includes provisions for tackling disinformation, such as fake news and conspiracy theories. Digital platforms will be required to take steps to prevent the spread of disinformation, including removing false information and labeling content that is potentially misleading.
The Digital Services Act is still being debated and refined, but it represents a significant step towards regulating the online world and protecting the rights of internet users. The act will likely have far-reaching implications for digital services and could set a precedent for other countries to follow.