Ofcom said it was “watching with interest” the EU’s investigation into whether Twitter/X has broken any laws regarding hate speech and disinformation.
The British media watchdog is yet to launch any investigations of its own but is said to be monitoring the EU’s decision closely, with reports indicating that a probe of its own could be in the pipeline.
Both the EU, through the Digital Services Act, and the UK, through the Online Safety Bill, have new powers to regulate and fine social media giants for failing to protect users on their platforms.
The laws aim to protect the posting and sharing of illegal content, disinformation, and material which is inappropriate for those under 18.
Ofcom can fine companies in breach of the law up to £18 million or 10% of the company's annual turnover, whichever is highest.
Musk since taking over and renaming Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR) has been accused of reducing the amount of workers responsible for policing safety on the site as well as reinstating banned accounts.
In mid-December, the EU said it had launched a probe into X due to the app’s “suspected breach of obligations to counter illegal content and disinformation; suspected breach of transparency obligations and suspected deceptive design of user interface.”
A deadline hasn’t been given for the investigation.
In response to the investigation, the platform said it “remains committed to complying with the Digital Services Act and is cooperating with the regulatory process.”
However, it warned of the importance of remaining “free of political influence” while following the law.
“X is focused on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all users on our platform, while protecting freedom of expression, and we will continue to work tirelessly towards this goal,” the statement concluded.