In a startling revelation, X, the company formerly identified as Twitter, finds itself at the center of a brewing storm within the European Union (EU) over the rampant spread of misinformation on its platform. According to a recently published EU report, X is playing a disproportionately significant role in the dissemination of false information.
The EU has unveiled these concerning findings in its inaugural report on how digital platforms handle the issue of misinformation and disinformation, a crucial component of the Digital Services Act. This comprehensive legislation, which has recently come into force, mandates that major online platforms divulge intricate details regarding their strategies for combatting misinformation. Furthermore, numerous companies have voluntarily embraced a “Code of Practice” aimed at tackling disinformation. Notably, X had announced its withdrawal from this agreement in May, although it pledged to uphold stricter disinformation policies mandated by the DSA.
The report’s revelations are quite alarming. X surpasses many of its more substantial counterparts in terms of both the volume of disinformation circulating on its platform and the level of engagement these misleading posts generate. European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova underscored this point, stating, “X… stands out as the platform with the highest proportion of mis/disinformation posts.” Moreover, the report highlights that X leads the pack in terms of the visibility of misinformation and disinformation, closely followed by Facebook and Instagram.
Strikingly, X has chosen not to respond to requests for comment. However, the company took to its Global Affairs Twitter account to challenge the way the data was presented and reaffirm its commitment to complying with the DSA.
In a separate statement, Jourova emphasized the urgent need for all major platforms to adapt their strategies to confront the ongoing “war in the information space.” She stressed that the forthcoming elections within the EU would serve as a litmus test for the platforms that have pledged to abide by the Code of Practice, urging them not to falter.
Importantly, Jourova made it clear that even with Twitter’s withdrawal from the code of practice, individuals like Musk would not be exempt from scrutiny. As reported by The Guardian, she stated, “My message to Twitter/X is clear: you must comply. We will closely monitor your actions.”
In essence, X, in its evolution from Twitter, is grappling with a critical issue that not only affects its own reputation but also carries significant implications for the broader landscape of online information dissemination. As the EU steps up its efforts to combat misinformation, all eyes are on X and other major platforms to see how they will address this growing challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Disinformation Challenge
What is the Digital Services Act mentioned in the article?
The Digital Services Act is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the European Union (EU) to regulate online platforms and their handling of misinformation and disinformation. It requires major platforms to disclose details about their approaches to combating misinformation.
Why is X, formerly known as Twitter, facing scrutiny from the EU?
X is under scrutiny due to its role in spreading misinformation on its platform, as revealed by an EU report. The report indicates that X has a disproportionately high volume of misinformation and engagement with such content.
What is the “Code of Practice” mentioned in the article?
The “Code of Practice” is a voluntary agreement that many companies, including X, entered into to combat disinformation. However, X announced its withdrawal from this agreement. Despite this, it remains committed to following the stricter disinformation policies outlined in the Digital Services Act.
How did X respond to the EU report’s findings?
X did not provide a formal response to the report. Instead, the company disputed the way the data was presented on its Global Affairs Twitter account and reiterated its commitment to complying with the Digital Services Act.
What did European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova emphasize regarding misinformation?
Vera Jourova stressed the importance of major online platforms adapting their strategies to combat the ongoing issue of misinformation, characterizing it as a “war in the information space.” She also noted that upcoming EU elections would serve as a test for platforms that have pledged to abide by the Code of Practice.
How does the EU plan to hold platforms accountable for their actions?
The EU intends to closely monitor platforms, including X, to ensure compliance with the regulations outlined in the Digital Services Act. Even if companies like X withdraw from voluntary agreements, they are still expected to adhere to the stricter disinformation policies mandated by this legislation.
More about Disinformation Challenge
- Digital Services Act (DSA) – European Commission
- EU Report on Misinformation – European Commission
- Vera Jourova – European Commission
- The Guardian’s Coverage of the Issue
1 comment
wow, X in big trouble wit EU ovr disinfo! DSA big law, X pull out Code, EU watchin!