Illegal content on Elon Musk's X draws EU probe

Elon Musk

 Illegal content on Elon Musk's X sparks EU probe

The European Union has launched an investigation into Elon Musk's X platform for hosting illegal content, including disinformation related to the October 7 attack on Israel. This is the first investigation into a major online platform under the EU Digital Services Act, which requires companies to take action to remove illegal content from their platforms.

The EU investigation focuses on X's handling of content related to the Hamas attacks that killed 11 people and injured dozens more. The EU claimed that X failed to remove posts that glorified or spread false information about the attacks.

The investigation could have significant implications for X and other online platforms. The Digital Services Act gives the EU the power to fine a company up to 6% of global turnover if it fails to comply with its requirements.

Musk has criticized the way X is handling the Hamas attacks, saying that the company has a "zero-tolerance" policy regarding illegal content. Other words, he said that X is attempting to augment its system for moderate content.

The EU's investigation of this nature is likely to be lengthy. The Commission gave X two months to respond to the accusations. If the Commission determines that X has violated the Digital Services Act, it could issue a formal decision that would require the company to take action to correct the problem.

The investigation is an example of the EU's increasing concern about the proliferation of illegal content online. The Digital Services Act is a significant piece of legislation that seeks to promote online platforms as a form of media for the content that they possess. The investigation of X is the first occasion on which the effectiveness of the Act is tested.

The possible results of the investigation

The results of the investigation are ambiguous, but there are a few possible explanations. One possible outcome is that the Commission will conclude that X has violated the Digital Services Act and issue a formal decision that requests that company take action. This would include fines, alterations to the content of X, or a combination of both.

Another possible outcome is that the Commission will conclude that X has not violated the Digital Services Act. This would be a triumph for Musk and X, but it could also inspire concern from the EU and other nations.

A third possibility is that the Commission will come to an agreement with X. This would be a compromise that would satisfy both parties. The settlement may involve alterations to the system of content regulation or other actions intended to address the concerns of the EU.

Other online platforms implications

The results of the investigation could have a general impact on other online platforms. If the Commission is told that X has violated the Digital Services Act, this could serve as a precursor to other investigations of online platforms. This would lead to more sanctions and fines for companies that do not follow the law.

The investigation may also lead to alterations in the way that online platforms regulate content. Companies may be more inclined to take away content that is considered illegal or harmful in order to avoid punishment or fines.