Brussels has accused the US tech giant Meta of continuing to deploy features on Facebook and Instagram that keep users—especially children and vulnerable adults—engaged for excessive periods. The allegation forms part of a broader investigation launched in 2024 under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA).

Background: The Digital Services Act

Adopted by the European Parliament in 2020, the DSA sets out clear responsibilities for online platforms, demanding risk assessments, transparent reporting, and swift removal of harmful content. Large‑scale tech firms must now scrutinise their algorithms and UI/UX choices to ensure they do not foster ‘addictive’ behaviours that could jeopardise user wellbeing.

Meta’s Current Standing

Meta has already faced scrutiny under the DSA for advertising transparency and data‑privacy lapses. This latest focus is on ‘addictive design’—interface elements that nudge users to spend more time scrolling, liking, and sharing. Regulators argue that such designs can impair the mental health of minors and erode the productivity of vulnerable adults.

Potential Penalties and Next Steps

If Meta fails to comply within the stipulated deadline, the EU can impose fines of up to 10 % of its worldwide annual revenue—a sum that could reach billions of dollars. The punitive approach is intended to compel swift corrective action rather than prolonged legal battles. While Meta has not issued an official response, industry analysts anticipate a robust legal defence aimed at protecting its business model.

Implications for the Global Tech Landscape

This enforcement signals a watershed moment for all major social‑media platforms. Should the EU maintain a hard line, similar regulatory frameworks may emerge worldwide, ushering in a new era of user‑centric design standards across the digital ecosystem.