EU platforms fall short in digital services law risk assessments
Large online platforms are not adequately assessing the risks of their services under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), according to a report from DSA Civil Society Coordination Group, in collaboration with the Recommender Systems Taskforce, and People vs Big Tech.
The DSA requires these platforms, including prominent names such as Facebook, TikTok and Google, to submit annual reports describing potential harm, such as damage to users’ mental health. However, the study found that these reports often do not comprehensively address the real dangers posed by platform functionality.
Although platforms are required to conduct prior risk assessments before launching new features or products in the EU, the CSCG report argues for a broader approach. The report argues that many analyses focus primarily on content moderation, while overlooking that the design of the platform itself can contribute to broader risks such as mental health problems, political polarisation and the dissemination of harmful information.
The group stresses the importance of transparency in building trust with users and regulators. Many of the reports submitted lack verifiable data to support claims about the effectiveness of implemented risk mitigation measures. To enhance credibility, platforms should disclose both quantitative and qualitative data, including statistics on exposure to harmful content and user engagement with monitoring tools.
Furthermore, the CSCG advocates for meaningful stakeholder involvement in risk assessment processes. This includes involving civil society organizations, researchers and affected communities to ensure that real-world concerns are adequately reflected in risk assessments and risk reduction strategies.
The report concludes that while the first round of DSA risk assessment reports is a step toward greater accountability, significant improvements are still needed. Platforms should prioritise addressing design-related risks, increase transparency through verifiable data, and actively work with stakeholders to promote user safety and build trust.
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