A safer online environment
Today, online platforms can be misused to spread illegal content such as hate speech, terrorist content or child sexual abuse material, as well as sell dangerous goods and counterfeit products, or to offer illegal services, exposing citizens to harm.
61% of surveyed EU citizens say they have come across illegal content online and 65% say they do not think the Internet is safe for use, according to the 2018 Eurobarometer survey.
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What the new Digital Services Act changes:
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Better protected consumers
Today, the fundamental rights of European citizens are not adequately protected online. Platforms can for example decide to delete users’ content, without informing the user or providing a possibility of redress. This has strong implications for users’ freedom of speech.
92% of respondents believe transparency from service providers is important to protect users’ freedom of expression, based on the report of the Open public consultation on the Digital Services Act.
What the new Digital Services Act changes:
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Empowered citizens and users
Today, platforms optimise the presentation of information to capture attention and drive revenue, but their users are often unaware of how their systems sort content and how platforms profile them. The manipulation of recommender systems and abuse of advertising systems can fuel dangerous disinformation and propagation of illegal content.
70% of respondents believe disinformation is spread by manipulating algorithmic processes on online platforms, according to the report of the Open public consultation on the Digital Services Act.
What the new Digital Services Act changes:
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Quality digital services at lower price
The systemic role of a few online platforms affects the lives of billions of users and millions of companies in Europe. Some companies have a major impact on, control the access to, and are entrenched in digital markets. They can impose unfair take-it-or-leave-it conditions on both their business users and consumers.
60% of respondents say that consumers don’t have sufficient choices and alternatives regarding online platforms, shows the report of the Open public consultation on a New Competition Tool.
What the new Digital Markets Act changes:
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