European Union: European Commission announced investigation into Stripchat over alleged breaches of minor protection requirements under Digital Services Act

On 27 May 2025, the European Commission announced formal proceedings against Stripchat under the Digital Services Act (DSA), over suspected failure to implement effective measures to protect minors from accessing pornographic content, including inadequate age verification tools and risk mitigation practices. While Stripchat had been designated a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP), the Commission terminated the status following evidence that its average monthly EU user base fell below the threshold for over a year. As a result, its VLOP-specific obligations will cease four months after de-designation. However, it was highlighted that general DSA obligations, including those concerning the safety of minors, will continue to apply under the supervision of the Cyprus Radiotelevision Authority. It was also stated that Commission will proceed with an in-depth investigation and may adopt interim measures, issue non-compliance decisions, or accept commitments from Stripchat to resolve the identified issues.