The European Union has just released the names of 19 digital platforms that must report and mitigate any potential risks created by their use of algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI). This list is a combination of popular digital services such as social media apps, search engines, and app stores, many of which are based in the US. The report from the EU that detailed these platforms is the Digital Services Act (DSA).
These 19 platforms have been classified as either Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) or Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs). There are 17 VLOPs and 2 VLOSEs: Alibaba AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, Apple App Store, Bing, Booking.com, Facebook, Google Play, Google Maps, Google Search, Google Shopping, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, Wikipedia, and YouTube.
Being designated as a VLOP or VLOSE means these designated platforms will have to exercise more stringent regulations. They will have to analyze and report any possible algorithmic risks and be proactive in identifying and mitigating any harms, such as those related to freedom of expression, public health, voter manipulation and the like. The regulation is also imploring the platform to provide clear information with regards to recommended content, such as why users are suggested certain content or being provided with the right to opt-out of recommendation systems based on personal information.
Twitter, as one example, may be unprepared for this obligation of compliance with the DSA regulations under its current administration. There have been rather concerning aspects of their handling of certain issues, such as implementing the new Blue Check system, which in effect opens it up to more scams. In addition, their shift of its third party researchers’ access to Twitter’s API has limited the ability of outside researchers.
The 19 platforms must adhere to the DSA requirements of transparency and order in its dealings. The platforms have four months to comply with the DSA regulations, which includes submitting their first risk assessment to the European Commission, by August 25.
About The Company:
Alibaba is one of the companies listed in the DSA requirements. It is the largest business-to-business trade company based in China with businesses in e-commerce, retail, internet, and technology. It is the largest retailer in the world and a major driver of international business.
About The Person:
Elon Musk is the corporate figure who is most frequently mentioned in relation to the DSA. He is the founder, CEO and CTO of Space Exploration Technologies and the current CEO of Tesla Motors. He is also the co-founder of Paypal and OpenAI and has been heavily involved in several other projects. Musk has been widely criticized for his erratic behavior, arbitrary decisions and failure to comply with rules, all of which could lead to serious legal implications or enforcement by the EU on the designated platforms.
