Amazon has filed a legal challenge against the European Union’s new online content rules, becoming the first major tech company to do so. The company argues that the rules are too vague and could result in censorship.
The Digital Services Act (DSA), which was adopted in April, imposes stricter obligations on large online platforms to remove illegal and harmful content. It also grants users more control over their data and privacy.
Amazon claims that the DSA is “disproportionate” and “unclear” in its legal challenge filed in Luxembourg. The company is concerned that the rules could force the removal of legal content, such as product reviews, that it considers harmless.
Another concern raised by Amazon is the potential for regulators to wield excessive power under the DSA, allowing them to remove content without providing clear reasons.
The DSA is scheduled to take effect in January 2024. If Amazon’s challenge succeeds, it could result in a delay or modification of the rules.
The outcome of Amazon’s challenge is being closely monitored by other tech companies, which share similar concerns about the implications of the DSA. Success for Amazon could establish a precedent for other companies to challenge the rules.
The DSA is a significant piece of legislation that could have a profound impact on the operations of online platforms. While it remains too early to determine how the rules will be implemented, Amazon’s challenge serves as a reminder that the tech industry is prepared to fight against them.
