Snap probed by EU over compliance with child protection rules

The European Commission has opened formal proceedings to investigate if Snap (SNAP)chat is ensuring a high level of safety, privacy and security for children online, in compliance with the Digital Services Act. Snapchat may have breached the DSA by exposing minors to grooming attempts and recruitment for criminal purposes, as well as to information about the sale of illegal goods, like drugs, or age-restricted products, such as vapes and alcohol. The Commission will now carry out an in-depth investigation. This involves gathering further evidence, for example by sending requests for information to Snapchat and conducting interviews or inspections. The opening of formal proceedings empowers the Commission to take further enforcement steps, such as adopting interim measures and a non-compliance decision. The Commission is also empowered to accept commitments from Snapchat to remedy issue raised in the proceedings.