Once again, tensions are rising between billionaire Elon Musk, owner of the social network X (formerly Twitter), and the European Commission.
Indeed, according to the latest information from the New York Times, a fine of more than 900 million euros, which could correspond to more than a billion dollars, is currently being considered.
The social network in the EU's crosshairs...
For already For several months, the social network has become highly controversial, and continues to multiply social and political scandals. Already closely monitored by Brussels, this record fine could come as part of a violation of several provisions of the Digital Services Act (DSA).
In December 2023, a first DSA investigation had already accused X for not fighting against "fake news" and illegal content. The preliminary report of this investigation, made public during the summer The latter, criticized the social network for its new certification system, the famous "blue tick," promoting identity theft.
More recently, after the election of Donald Trump in the United States, EU investigators criticized the social network to promote far-right speeches, with the aim of manipulating political opinion in Europe.
Following the latest statements by Elon Musk, who very openly supports certain European nationalist parties, the European Commission interprets this action as an attempt to interfere in the upcoming presidential elections.
The return of moderation on social networks?
If this fine is imposed by the European Union, the social network could also be forced to take further measures on its platform. Although the New York Times' sources did not provide further details regarding the measures that could be taken, we can expect more precise control of publications on the social network.
However, while moderation on the social network has been significantly reduced, as was also the case for Facebook more recently in a statement by Mark Zuckerberg, should we expect a massive return of content moderators?
For the moment, on the side of the social network X, this does not seem to be on the agenda. Indeed, on his platform, Elon Musk was quick to react to denounce "political censorship" and an attack on freedom of expression.
A decision to come in summer
Although the social network has stated, once again, that it wants to comply with the DSA, the decision on a fine is not expected to be known immediately.
Indeed, the European Commission's decision is not expected to be known before the summer, unless a new twist emerges in this case, especially since Elon Musk announced the resale of X to xAI on March 28, another company of the acquirer.
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