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Meta Faces EU Probe Over 'Dark Patterns'
6 May
Summary
- Irish regulators probe Meta for Digital Services Act non-compliance.
- Meta accused of using 'dark patterns' on Facebook and Instagram.
- Potential fines could reach 6% of Meta's global revenue.

Irish regulators have launched two investigations into Meta's compliance with the European Digital Services Act (DSA). Coimisiún na Meán, the Irish internet watchdog, is examining whether Meta adequately provides users with alternatives to algorithmically targeted feeds on Facebook and Instagram.
The investigations follow complaints that Meta utilizes "dark patterns," tactics designed to steer users away from making empowered choices about their online content consumption. The DSA, effective since 2023 in Europe, mandates that large platforms like Meta offer chronological feed options alongside personalized ones.
Regulators expressed concern over the potential harm caused by recommender systems, especially to younger users. Meta stated it disagrees with the allegations and has made substantial changes to comply with the DSA. Failure to comply could result in substantial fines, potentially reaching up to 6 percent of the company's worldwide revenue.