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The European Commission has imposed its first penalty under the Digital Services Act (DSA) by fining Elon Musk’s X €120 million for deceptive blue check verification practices. The fine targets X’s system allowing users to purchase blue checkmarks, which previously verified real identities. Authorities criticized the platform for lacking transparency in advertising and restricting researcher access to public data. The ruling highlights breaches of DSA rules requiring clearer disclosure of content moderation processes. This case sets a precedent for tech companies facing regulatory scrutiny under EU digital laws.
Key facts
- EU fines X €120 million for violating Digital Services Act transparency rules
- Blue check verification system criticized as deceptive by European Commission
- Fine includes penalties for poor ad transparency and restricted data access
- X previously issued blue checks to verified public figures before Musk’s acquisition
- Case marks first enforcement action under landmark EU digital regulations
