Explore how Google is updating its service policies to meet the standards outlined in the European Union's Digital Services Act. Learn about the company's efforts to enhance transparency, content moderation, and compliance while addressing concerns about potential consequences.
Google has announced plans to update its service policies to align with the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) requirements, as stated in an August 24 blog post. The tech giant has undertaken substantial efforts to ensure compliance with the DSA, a regulation aimed at harmonizing content rules across the EU and establishing specific content moderation processes.
To adhere to the DSA, Google intends to:
1. Expand its Ad Transparency Center.
2. Enhance researchers' access to data and transparency in research.
3. Introduce increased visibility for content moderation.
4. Establish a new Transparency Center for policies.
5. Conduct more comprehensive risk analyses.
While Google recognizes the necessity of complying with the DSA, the company has expressed concerns about potential unintended consequences. Specifically, it worries about providing too much information about its enforcement approach, which might facilitate misuse of its services and the spread of harmful misinformation.
The DSA categorizes certain online platforms as "very large online platforms" (VLOPs) or "very large online search engines" (VLOSEs). Requirements for platforms in these categories include removing illegal content, prohibiting targeted advertising based on sensitive characteristics, limiting targeted ads for children, and sharing data with researchers and authorities.
Google, as a VLOSE, along with other platforms in the designated categories, must meet DSA obligations by August 28. The company's efforts to align its policies with DSA guidelines are regarded as "compliance at scale."
While some users view these regulations as necessary to hold Big Tech accountable, others express concerns about potential limitations on free speech. Google has responded to allegations of ads tracking children's data, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining safe online environments.
(SAVANNAH FORTIS, CoinTelegraph, 2023)