Monitoring Disinformation on Social Media Platforms
The European Union (EU) is closely monitoring disinformation campaigns on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), in light of the shooting of Slovakia’s prime minister, Robert Fico. The bloc has been investigating X since December last year for its role in spreading disinformation and the effectiveness of its content moderation feature called ‘Community Notes’. So far, no sanctions have been imposed on the platform.
Elon Musk’s Amplification of Disinformation
Elon Musk personally responded to a post on X by right-wing political influencer Ian Miles Cheong, which attempted to link the shooting to Fico’s rejection of the World Health Organization’s pandemic prevention plan. Musk’s response amplified this disinformation. In a background briefing with the press, a senior Commission official confirmed that they are monitoring the content on X and analyzing its effectiveness in mitigating disinformation. This monitoring is part of the EU’s ongoing investigation into the platform.
Potential Consequences for X
It is important to note that breaches of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) can result in fines of up to 6% of a company’s global annual turnover. Given Musk’s penchant for provocative posts, X may face significant financial consequences in the future if it continues to allow disinformation to spread on its platform. This serves as a reminder that regulatory enforcement cycles can be costly for companies like X.
Introduction of Grok, Musk’s AI Chatbot
In other news, X announced that premium users in the EU now have access to Musk’s generative AI chatbot, Grok. This tool is known for its politically incorrect responses, in contrast to other similar AI chatbots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Musk took to X to share the development, using a caveman-style writing style: “Grok now available in Europe.”
DSA Watchlist for Grok
Interestingly, Grok is also under scrutiny by the EU’s DSA. The senior Commission official stated that they are in close contact with X regarding the launch of Grok. It appears that X has delayed certain features of Grok in the EU, potentially due to concerns about its impact on civic discourse and elections. However, specific details about the disabled features have not been disclosed. Further clarification has been sought from the Commission regarding this matter.
Recognition of Risks in Civic Discourse and Elections
The official suggested that X’s decision to delay the launch of certain Grok features until after the European Parliament election indicates their recognition of potential risks associated with these features in the context of civic discourse and elections. This cautious approach reflects the ongoing investment in ensuring a responsible and safe online environment during critical political events.
Response from X
Despite attempts to reach out to X for clarification on Grok’s EU launch, the company has not yet responded to inquiries. It remains to be seen how X will navigate the challenges posed by disinformation and the deployment of AI chatbots in the EU, especially in relation to compliance with the DSA and ensuring the integrity of civic discourse and elections.