The European Commission is considering reclassifying Meta’s WhatsApp as a "very large platform" under the Digital Services Act after WhatsApp’s February 2025 user figures exceeded the DSA threshold. Such a designation would increase WhatsApp’s legal obligations, including stricter risk assessments, transparency and reporting requirements. Spokesperson Thomas Regnier said a future designation "wouldn't be excluded," though no final decision has been announced.
EU Weighs Reclassifying WhatsApp As a 'Very Large Platform' Under DSA
Illustration shows teenagers pose for a photo while holding smartphones in front of a Whatsapp logo
BRUSSELS, Jan 9 (Reuters) — The European Commission is considering reclassifying Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service so the company would face stronger legal duties to address illegal and harmful content, a commission spokesperson said on Friday.
Officials told reporters the commission is actively examining whether to designate WhatsApp as a "very large platform" — a status that would raise its obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA) after WhatsApp published user figures in February 2025 that exceeded the DSA threshold.
What The Designation Would Mean
Being labeled a "very large platform" under the DSA typically brings stricter requirements for risk assessment, transparency, incident reporting and measures to mitigate systemic risks linked to illegal or harmful content. The designation would subject WhatsApp to enhanced oversight by EU regulators and stricter compliance obligations.
"I wouldn't exclude a future designation," spokesperson Thomas Regnier told reporters.
The commission has not announced a final decision. Any change in designation would follow formal procedures under the DSA and could prompt additional regulatory measures aimed at improving content moderation and platform accountability.
Reporting by Louise Breusch Rasmussen; Editing by Bart Meijer, Charlotte Van Campenhout and Jan Harvey
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