In December 2025, the European Commission issued its first fine for violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Platform X was ordered to pay a 120 million euro fine and address the issues in question.
The following were criticized:
- The so-called “blue checkmarks,” which are used to identify verified accounts without sufficient verification of who actually operates them;
- The insufficient transparency of the advertising archive; and
- The limited access researchers have to public data.
According to media reports, X submitted proposals for improvements regarding the blue checkmark issue within the specified deadline.
The Science Media Center asked researchers, including media law expert Matthias C. Kettemann, about the significance of the proceedings against X, its response to the requirement to make corrections, what to expect regarding the fine and extended deadline, and the progress of the DSA’s implementation thus far.
Statement by Matthias C. Kettemann
The Relevance of the Proceedings
“These proceedings are relevant because the Commission has recently been criticized for treating U.S. companies with kid gloves and enforcing European digital law only half-heartedly due to Trump. The proceedings against TikTok and Meta, as well as the significant steps taken against X, demonstrate that the Commission takes European digital law and the rights of citizens seriously.”
Proposal Submitted by X
“It’s a good day for Europeans and their rights.” According to reports, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has agreed to modify his verification mechanism (‘blue checkmark’) — at least for the EU — so that it can no longer be purchased ‘just like that.’ This is an important step. It will not only reduce deception on X, but also demonstrate to the Commission that their procedures are effective and that European digital law works, especially while Trump is distracted. The proposals to address the shortcomings must be examined in detail. Therefore, it is important that the Commission publish them as soon as possible. Further proceedings regarding the spread of disinformation are ongoing. If the changes are effective, however, they will certainly send a strong signal.
Deadline of April 28 Regarding Transparency Requirements
“Hopefully, X will also yield on this point and comply with the Commission’s demands.”
Fine Imposed on X
“The fine imposed on X marks a turning point. It shows that the DSA is not just a set of symbolic rules, but rather a regulatory regime that can be enforced. TikTok had previously been more cooperative and backed down, so a fine was unnecessary in that case. That is the ideal scenario. In my view, the real significance of the decision lies in its precedent-setting effect. With this decision, the Commission has established a genuine line of sanctions under the DSA for the first time.”
This is crucial for ongoing and future proceedings because it lowers the threshold for further enforcement. Platforms now know that violations of transparency, design, and accountability obligations will be taken seriously. This is particularly relevant for other proceedings, such as the ongoing investigation by X into recommender systems and Grok, as well as the preliminary findings against Meta and TikTok regarding transparency and data access obligations.”
Assessment Following the Introduction of the DSA
“My assessment is mixed but overall positive. The DSA has gotten off to a better start than many feared, but it is not yet as effective as its regulatory framework intends. This is due to political reasons. It could very well be that the current geopolitical situation is working in the Commission’s favor. Trump is preoccupied with Iran and the Middle East, and Musk cannot rely on his support as much.
The DSA has been implemented well in Germany. Our coordinator, the Federal Network Agency, is supported by an excellent advisory board. The number of reported violations is low, but the DSA is a law that brings about digital structural change. In its enforcement, it relies on strong authorities rather than individual reports.
The DSA is an important and credible instrument of European platform regulation. However, its effectiveness will not be measured solely by large fines. What matters is whether users know their rights, whether procedures are practical, and whether national authorities and the Commission have the political will and resources for consistent enforcement. The launch has been successful. Musk’s concession is a positive sign. The real test is just beginning.”
For more information in German, visit the Science Media Center website.