What is The Digital Services Act 2024?

The Digital Services Act (DSA) 2024 is an EU regulation designed to create a safer and more transparent online environment by holding digital platforms accountable for the content they host. It applies to online intermediaries such as social networks, marketplaces, app stores, and search engines, ensuring they take stronger measures to prevent illegal activities, misinformation, and harmful content.

The DSA aims to protect users' rights, provide clear rules for businesses, and enhance platform accountability. It introduces stricter obligations for very large online platforms and search engines with over 45 million users in the EU requiring them to mitigate systemic risks, such as the spread of disinformation. Smaller platforms and startups benefit from proportionate regulations, allowing them to scale without excessive compliance burdens.

From 17th February 2024, the DSA applies to all platforms, following an earlier enforcement phase for major platforms in August 2023. The European Commission oversees compliance alongside national authorities, ensuring that platforms whether based in the EU or operating within the single market adhere to these new rules.