France: Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication opened investigation into content moderation practices on Kick platform

On 20 August 2025, the Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication (Arcom) opened an investigation into the platform Kick and initiated exchanges with the Maltese regulator responsible for its supervision, following the designation of a legal representative of the service in Malta as required under the Digital Service Act (DSA). Arcom requested detailed information on resources allocated to French-language content moderation and the handling of the channel “Jeanpormanove”, including reports received and measures taken against potentially illegal content. In parallel, Arcom received an initial response from the platform committing to full cooperation, with further exchanges scheduled. Arcom confirmed it will pursue actions to ensure compliance with internet actors’ obligations, particularly concerning the protection of minors, and will intensify its cooperation within the framework of the Observatory of Online Hate with entities such as OFAC/Pharos, DILCRAH, PNLH, CNCDH, and trusted flaggers. The Arcom highlighted that the involvement of the Human Rights League (LDH) had led to engagement with German counterparts and the European Commission and reiterated that both the DSA and national legislation provide a framework to safeguard fundamental rights in the digital sphere while balancing freedom of expression, human dignity, and innovation.