EU demands a deeper look into X’s recommendation algorithm as DSA compliance probe intensifies
The European Commission has ramped up its investigation into X (formerly Twitter) over concerns related to its compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). On January 17, the Commission announced three additional investigatory measures targeting the platform’s recommender system, a core component of how X curates and displays content.
The measures include:
A request for internal documentation on X’s recommender systems and recent changes, with a deadline of February 15, 2025.
A retention order, requiring X to preserve internal records of changes to its algorithm from January 17, 2025, to December 31, 2025, or until the investigation concludes.
A demand for access to commercial APIs, enabling the Commission to directly analyze content moderation practices and account virality on the platform.
Background
The probe stems from allegations that X failed to meet its obligations under the DSA, particularly as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP). This includes accusations of disseminating disinformation during the Hamas-Israel conflict and concerns about the platform’s implementation of paid verification checkmarks, which allegedly fueled the spread of misleading content.
In December 2023, preliminary findings indicated that X may have breached the DSA by inadequately addressing systemic risks, a central requirement for VLOPs.
EU’s commitment to oversight
Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission’s Executive Vice President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, emphasized the importance of these measures.
"Today we are taking further steps to shed light on the compliance of X's recommender systems with the obligations under the DSA. We are committed to ensuring that every platform operating in the EU respects our legislation, which aims to make the online environment fair, safe, and democratic for all European citizens," Virkkunen said in a statement.
Timing and political underpinnings
The EU’s announcement comes just weeks before Germany’s elections on February 23 fueling speculation about X’s role in the political landscape. CEO Elon Musk has drawn criticism for supporting the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, even hosting a livestream with AfD Chancellor candidate Alice Weidel and promoting the party on the platform.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned Musk’s actions as “completely unacceptable,” amid fears that X’s algorithm could amplify AfD content and manipulate the political discourse.
However, when questioned, Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier denied any connection between the investigation and Musk’s political activities.
"These steps are completely independent from any political considerations or any specific events recently happening," Regnier said during a press briefing. "Our focus is on systemic risks and compliance with the DSA, not on specific political actors or events."
Still, Regnier reaffirmed the commission's commitment to safeguarding democratic processes saying, "We will do everything we can to be sure – as with all other elections – that [Germany's] will be free and fair."
Next steps and potential penalties
With X facing a February 15 deadline to comply, the Commission aims to determine whether the platform’s algorithms pose risks to European users, including during critical events like elections. Failure to meet DSA requirements could lead to significant penalties, including fines or operational restrictions.
X has yet to respond to requests for comment.
