The European Union has indicated that WhatsApp may soon be subjected to more stringent content moderation and transparency requirements as its user base in Europe continues to grow. The move signals the EU’s intent to bring large digital platforms under tighter regulatory supervision, particularly those with expanding reach and influence.
Digital Services Act Threshold in Focus
Under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), online platforms that cross a specific threshold of monthly active users are classified as “Very Large Online Platforms” (VLOPs). Officials have suggested that WhatsApp’s recent surge in European users could push it past this benchmark, triggering additional obligations related to content control, risk assessment, and platform accountability.
What Stricter Rules Could Mean for WhatsApp
If designated as a VLOP, WhatsApp would be required to implement stronger safeguards against illegal and harmful content. This includes enhanced systems to detect misuse, clearer reporting mechanisms for users, regular risk assessments, and increased transparency about how content moderation decisions are made.
Encryption Remains, But Oversight Increases
While WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption is expected to remain intact, regulators have emphasized that encryption does not exempt platforms from broader responsibilities. The focus, EU officials note, is not on breaking encryption but on ensuring systemic risks—such as misinformation campaigns and coordinated abuse—are adequately addressed.
Part of a Wider EU Tech Crackdown
The development aligns with the EU’s broader effort to rein in Big Tech firms through landmark legislation like the DSA and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Several major platforms, including social networks and video-sharing services, are already facing enhanced scrutiny under these rules.
WhatsApp and Meta Yet to Respond
WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, has not publicly commented on the EU’s latest remarks. However, the company has previously stated that it is committed to complying with European regulations while protecting user privacy and secure communications.
What Comes Next
Regulators are expected to review updated user data before making a final determination. If WhatsApp is formally designated under the DSA, enforcement actions and compliance timelines could follow in the coming months.