The European Commission Investigates X Over Content Related to Hamas Attacks
The European Commission has initiated formal proceedings to investigate X (formerly Twitter) regarding its handling of content related to the terrorist group Hamas’ attacks against Israel. The commission will assess whether X violated the Digital Services Act by not effectively addressing misinformation and illegal content on the platform. The investigation will also focus on X’s Community Notes and policies aimed at mitigating risks to civic discourse and electoral processes.
Examining X’s Blue Check Mark System and Transparency Efforts
The European Commission will also examine X’s blue check mark system, which is suspected of deceptive design, as well as the platform’s transparency efforts concerning publicly available data. Elon Musk, the owner of X, implemented controversial policies after acquiring Twitter in 2022, including changes to the blue check verification system and reducing the number of content moderators.
Musk’s Controversial Actions and Antisemitic Content
Following an attack by Hamas on Israel, Musk used his personal account to promote antisemitic content by replying to a tweet promoting far-right conspiracy theories. Media Matters released a report showing that advertisements on X were featured alongside pro-Nazi content under certain search conditions. Musk also faced backlash for telling advertisers to “go f— yourself” during an interview and claiming that leaving the platform would “kill the company.”
No Public Comment from Musk on the Investigation
Elon Musk has not publicly commented on the European Commission investigation at this time. In the crypto space, Musk is known for promoting Dogecoin and other tokens, as well as his Bitcoin purchases while leading Tesla and SpaceX.
Hot Take: European Commission Launches Investigation into X’s Handling of Content
The European Commission has taken action against X (formerly Twitter) by opening formal proceedings to investigate the platform’s response to content related to Hamas’ attacks on Israel. The investigation will assess whether X violated the Digital Services Act and evaluate the effectiveness of its Community Notes and policies. This move highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by social media platforms in relation to misinformation, illegal content, and transparency. It also raises questions about the role and responsibilities of platform owners like Elon Musk in shaping online discourse and promoting responsible content moderation. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for X’s future policies and practices.
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