Japan: Closed inquiry into handling of illegal information and user information as part of the Third Summary of the Study Group on Platform Services

On 2 February 2024, the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications's Study Group on Platform Services closed an inquiry into illegal and harmful information on the Internet and the handling of user information as part of the Third Summary of the Study Group on Platform Services. This inquiry was aimed at a wide range of digital services and was designed to ensure transparency and accountability in the actions taken by platform operators, such as post-removal and account suspension. The inquiry identified a number of obligations for platform operators, which include the monitoring of content on a platform, including the flow of illegal information, and taking action against harmful content and individuals. It also aimed to address issues related to the generation and spread of misinformation and selective exposure to platform user information on the internet. For future initiatives, the inquiry brought forth that continuous monitoring is required in a manner that provides a stable framework and takes into account different perspectives as well as new trends. The regulation required collaboration from diverse stakeholders, including generative AI providers, virtual space-related businesses, communication/broadcasting operators, and users.