The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a proposed piece of legislation by the European Union (EU) aimed at regulating online platforms and services. The goal of the act is to create a safer and more transparent online environment for consumers and businesses alike.
The DSA would apply to a wide range of digital services, including social media platforms, search engines, online marketplaces, and other online intermediaries. The act seeks to address several key issues related to online services, such as illegal content, hate speech, disinformation, and data protection.
One of the most significant changes proposed by the DSA is the establishment of a new regulatory framework for digital services. This framework would require online platforms to take more responsibility for the content that appears on their platforms, including removing illegal content and preventing the spread of harmful content.
The DSA would also establish new rules for online advertising, requiring greater transparency and accountability for online ads. This would include measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and the use of targeted advertising to discriminate against certain groups of people.
Another key aspect of the DSA is the creation of a new Digital Services Coordinator, a regulatory body that would oversee the implementation of the act and ensure that online platforms are complying with its provisions.
Overall, the Digital Services Act represents a significant effort to address some of the most pressing issues related to online services today. It seeks to strike a balance between protecting online users and promoting innovation and growth in the digital economy. The act is currently under review by the European Parliament, and its final form is still subject to change.