X appeals €120 million Eu Fine over digital services act violations

Friday 20 February 2026 - 15:30

By: Sahili Aya

X appeals €120 million Eu Fine over digital services act violations

Social media platform X has filed an appeal against a €120 million fine imposed by the European Union for alleged breaches of the bloc’s Digital Services Act (DSA).

The penalty, issued in December, followed an investigation by European regulators into the company’s compliance with new rules governing online platforms. The DSA, which aims to strengthen oversight of digital services operating within the EU, requires major platforms to take stronger measures against illegal content, ensure greater transparency in advertising, and improve accountability in content moderation practices.

In a statement published on its platform, X argued that the decision was based on what it described as an incomplete and superficial inquiry. The company also claimed that procedural errors and what it called a misinterpretation of its obligations under the DSA had undermined the fairness of the process.

Owned by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, X has repeatedly criticized certain aspects of European digital regulation, framing them as overly restrictive. European authorities, however, maintain that the DSA is essential to ensure user safety, combat disinformation, and protect fundamental rights online.

Legal experts note that the appeal process could take months, potentially setting an important precedent for how the DSA is enforced against large technology companies. The outcome may shape the balance between regulatory oversight and platform autonomy across the European digital market.

For now, the case highlights the growing tensions between global tech firms and European regulators as governments seek to tighten control over online ecosystems while companies defend their operational independence.