19.03.2025 13:06:00
Дата публикации
According to an analysis of risk assessment reports (RA Reports) under the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), the largest online platforms do not fully disclose the threats posed by their algorithms.
The report, prepared by the DSA Civil Society Coordination Group in collaboration with the Recommendation Systems Working Group and "People vs Big Tech," identified significant gaps in the risk assessment practices of companies such as Google, Meta, TikTok, and X.
Experts note that instead of systematically analyzing threats, platforms focus on isolated incidents, failing to address the fundamental issues of their services.
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Risks to children's mental health. YouTube acknowledged that its algorithms may contribute to addictive behavior in minors. However, most platforms have not assessed such risks or implemented effective mitigation measures.
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Lack of concrete steps to protect media pluralism. Despite claims of supporting access to information, platforms have not proposed mechanisms to prevent the spread of disinformation. Future iterations of RA Reports should include an analysis of their impact on journalism and information quality.
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Gender-based online violence. Some companies mentioned measures to combat such content, but in practice, they have reduced protective tools. For example, X changed its user blocking policy, raising concerns among human rights advocates.
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Failure to disclose the real effectiveness of their algorithms. TikTok introduced screen time control tools, but internal company documents indicate that they do not effectively reduce the time teenagers spend on the platform.
Recommendations for Tech Companies
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Conduct the most detailed risk assessments with multiple qualitative and quantitative indicators.
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Ensure reports are clear, visual, and easy to understand.
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Listen to the opinions of civil society and independent experts.
In the long run, the DSA should not merely serve as a formal regulation for digital platforms but should require real action to ensure user safety and online transparency.
(Translation generated automatically)
