The European Union (EU) has taken action against Facebook and Instagram, both under Meta, on the grounds that they violate regulations aimed at protecting children. The EU stated that the tech giant must implement stricter measures to prevent users under the age of 13 from accessing its platforms.
The accusation comes after a two-year investigation conducted by the European Commission and was made under the Digital Services Act (DSA).
The law requires major technology companies to take a more active role in combating illegal and harmful content on their platforms.
High usage among young children draws attention
According to data from EU technology regulators, approximately 10% of children under the age of 13 in Europe use Facebook and Instagram.
The European Commission emphasized that both platforms need to update their risk assessment methods.
The Commission expects improvements in the technical infrastructure to better identify underage users and prevent their access to the platforms.
Heavy fines on the horizon
Meta responded to the accusations, stating that it may implement the necessary changes before the Commission reaches its final decision. In cases of violations of the Digital Services Act, companies can face fines of up to 6% of their global annual turnover.