European Union: Implemented European Commission decision designating Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines under Digital Services Act

On 25 August 2023, the prescribed responsibilities outlined for the 17 Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and 2 Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) under the Digital Services Act (DSA) entered into force. The platforms and search engines are specifically bound to execute systemic risk evaluations aimed at monitoring the propagation of illicit content, determining the adverse implications on fundamental rights, and appraising their effects on democratic processes, public security, gender-based violence, as well as the well-being of users, both mental and physical. The specific companies designated within this group include Alibaba AliExpress, Amazon Store, Apple AppStore, Booking.com, Facebook, Google Play, Google Maps, Google Shopping, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, Wikipedia, YouTube, Zalando, Bing, and Google Search.