EU launches investigation into Google over alleged discrimination against news sites
The European Commission is investigating whether Google is unfairly disadvantaging news websites in its search results. This investigation could result in a significant fine for the tech giant.
The Commission suspects that Google’s rules are unlawfully penalising news sites that contain commercial content from third parties. Teresa Ribera, Vice-President of the Commission (pictured), expressed concern that such practices could prevent news publishers from generating vital revenue at a difficult time for the sector.
The Commission is examining whether Google applies fair, appropriate, and non-discriminatory conditions for access to publishers’ websites within its search engine, as required by the EU Digital Markets Act. There are concerns that Google’s “site reputation abuse” policy is unnecessarily hindering legitimate methods publishers use to monetise their content.
Although Google argues that this policy is intended to counter practices aimed at manipulating search rankings, the Commission will assess whether the actions of Alphabet have a negative impact on entrepreneurial freedom, innovation, and publishers’ collaboration with third parties.
The Commission intends to complete its investigation within 12 months. If a violation is found, fines can run up to 10% of Google’s annual global revenue, or up to 20% in the event of repeat offenses. In the most severe case, the Commission could even consider structural measures, such as splitting up the company.
This is not the first time the EU has taken action against Google and parent company Alphabet. Since 2018, the Commission has imposed several antitrust fines totaling around €8 billion. The largest fine, over €4 billion, was related to business practices surrounding Google’s Android operating system
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