Brussels, Belgium – The European Commission has filed preliminary charges against Meta Platforms, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, for violating EU technology regulations.
The Commission alleges that certain features of the platforms are designed to keep users connected for extended periods.
It has therefore demanded that the company modify these features or face substantial fines.
Results of a two-year investigation
The charges followed a two-year investigation under the European Digital Service Act,
which requires major online platforms to take more effective measures to limit harmful content and risks to users.
The Commission said Meta failed to adequately assess the addictive risks posed
by its personalized recommendation systems, autoplay features, and infinite scrolling.
It also stated that these features provide a continuous stream of content
and encourage users to spend more time on the platforms.
Calls for platform design changes
The Commission explained that features such as short videos and stories
on Facebook and Instagram can lead to excessive or compulsive use.
It deemed current time management and parental control tools inadequate and easily circumvented.
The European regulator called on Meta to disable autoplay and infinite scrolling features by default.
It also requested the addition of effective breaks to reduce screen time,
along with modifications to the recommendation system so that
it is not primarily based on increasing engagement and interaction.
Meta denies the accusations
For her part, Meta rejected the initial results, stressing that she had taken important steps to protect teenagers.
Among these steps is launching dedicated accounts for them that include automatic protection methods.
The company also provided broader control tools for parents,
such as blocking the use of Instagram at night and setting a daily use time.
The company confirmed its continued cooperation with European regulatory authorities.
While the Commission clarified that Meta has an opportunity to respond
to the accusations before issuing a final decision in the coming months.
With the possibility of imposing a fine of up to 6% of its total global annual revenues if violations are proven.
