In a move that reshapes digital oversight in Europe, the European Commission announced on August 31 the inclusion of ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox into the strictest regulatory framework of the Digital Services Act (DSA). This decision places these three popular services under the direct supervision of Brussels, as they have surpassed the critical threshold of 45 million average monthly users within the EU.
New Classification: Why ChatGPT is Now a 'Search Engine'
The designation of ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine (VLOSE) is particularly noteworthy. The Commission formally recognized that OpenAI's tool is now widely used for information retrieval, serving as an alternative to traditional search engines. Meanwhile, Reddit and Roblox have been classified as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), with Roblox becoming the first gaming platform to enter this regime.
Strict Obligations and Compliance Deadlines
The three companies now have a four-month window to adapt to the DSA's requirements. These new obligations include:
- Systematic risk assessment and mitigation regarding the spread of illegal content.
- Protection of users' physical and mental well-being.
- Ensuring the integrity of electoral processes.
- Monitoring the impacts of their algorithmic systems.
For Roblox specifically, the protection of minors is under intense scrutiny, while Reddit will be required to re-evaluate how its recommendation systems influence public discourse.
Financial Penalties and Direct Supervision
The European Commission now assumes the role of direct supervisor, holding the authority to conduct investigations and request information. The stakes for compliance are immense, as violations can lead to fines reaching up to 6% of each company's total global annual turnover, depending on the severity and duration of the breach.
