EU gives Meta and TikTok formal Hamas disinformation deadline

In a move to combat the spread of disinformation, the European Union (EU) has given Meta (formerly known as Facebook) and TikTok a formal deadline to provide information about the potential dissemination of false information on their platforms regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict. Previously, the EU’s request for information was not legally binding, but this latest demand carries legal force. Both Meta and TikTok have been given a week to respond to the EU’s concerns. Under the new tech rules implemented by the EU, if the responses are deemed unsatisfactory, the EU can open a formal investigation. The EU is particularly concerned about the spread of terrorist content, violent content, and hate speech following Hamas’ attack on Israel.

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EU gives Meta and TikTok formal Hamas disinformation deadline

The European Union (EU) has issued a formal demand for information from Meta (formerly known as Facebook) and TikTok regarding the possible spread of disinformation on their platforms related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. This new request carries legal force, unlike the previous non-binding request. Meta and TikTok have been given a week to respond to the EU’s concerns. Failure to comply with the request may result in a formal investigation by the EU under its new tech rules. The EU is particularly concerned about the spread of terrorist and violent content, as well as hate speech, following Hamas’ attack on Israel.

Previous request for information

Previously, Meta and TikTok were given 24 hours to respond to the EU’s request for information. However, this initial request did not have legal implications. The new demand made under the Digital Services Act is legally binding and requires a response from the platforms.

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Concerns over terrorist content and hate speech

The EU has expressed concerns about the potential spread of terrorist and violent content, as well as hate speech, on social media platforms like Meta and TikTok. These concerns have been heightened by Hamas’ attack on Israel. The EU is particularly worried about the implications of such content for community safety.

Response from TikTok and Meta

Both TikTok and Meta have responded to the EU’s request for information. A TikTok spokesperson stated that they will publish their first transparency report under the new law, which will provide more details about their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of their European community. A Meta spokesperson emphasized that their teams are working diligently to keep their platforms safe, take action against content that violates their policies or local laws, and collaborate with third-party fact-checkers to limit the spread of misinformation. Both companies have expressed their willingness to provide further details of their work and will respond to the European Commission.

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Similar demand for information from X

In addition to Meta and TikTok, X (formerly known as Twitter) has also been contacted by the EU regarding concerns about the spread of disinformation. X has stated that it has already removed hundreds of Hamas-affiliated accounts from its platform.

Surge in disinformation about Israel-Gaza conflict

There has been a significant increase in the spread of disinformation on social media platforms concerning the Israel-Gaza conflict. This includes the circulation of doctored images and mislabelled videos, which can further fuel tensions and misinformation.

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Chief executives of social media firms contacted by EU commissioner

EU Commissioner Thierry Breton has personally contacted the chief executives of Meta, TikTok, X, and Google to address the concerns about disinformation. In his letters, he requested a response within 24 hours. The timely action is essential to protect against the spread of misinformation, especially for the safety of children.

Double deadlines under the Digital Services Act

Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), the EU has set two deadlines for Meta and TikTok. The firms have been asked to provide information about their crisis response by 25 October, and they must respond to questions regarding the protection of election integrity by 8 November. Additionally, TikTok has been given a separate deadline to inform the European Commission about its measures to protect minors online.

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Possible penalties for non-compliance

Failure to comply with the requests made under the Digital Services Act can result in penalties for Meta and TikTok. These penalties may include fines of up to 6% of their global turnover or the suspension of their platform. It is crucial for social media companies to take these requests seriously and provide the necessary information to address concerns about disinformation and community safety.

In conclusion, the EU has formally demanded information from Meta and TikTok regarding the spread of disinformation on their platforms related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. This new demand carries legal force, and failure to comply may result in penalties for the companies. The EU has expressed concerns about the spread of terrorist content, hate speech, and misinformation on social media platforms, and it is taking necessary steps to address these issues. The double deadlines set under the Digital Services Act reflect the EU’s commitment to ensuring transparency and protecting election integrity. It is now up to Meta and TikTok to provide the requested information and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of disinformation on their platforms.

Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-67157733?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=KARANGA