Summary: WhatsApp’s open channels are set to be designated as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) by the European Commission under the Digital Services Act (DSA). This move will bring new regulatory requirements focused on content moderation, data transparency, and independent audits. Importantly, this designation applies only to WhatsApp’s open channels and will not affect private messaging.
WhatsApp’s Open Channels to Receive VLOP Designation
WhatsApp is joining the ranks of other Meta-owned platforms like Instagram and Facebook by having its open channels feature designated as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) by the European Commission. According to Bloomberg, the Commission has informed Meta of this decision, although no public announcement has been made yet.
What This Means for WhatsApp and Its Users
With the VLOP label under the Digital Services Act (DSA), WhatsApp will face increased regulatory oversight. This includes stricter rules on content moderation, transparent advertising practices, and the requirement to conduct annual independent audits. However, it’s important to note that this designation applies solely to WhatsApp’s open channels feature. Private individual messaging will remain unaffected and continue to be private between users.
How WhatsApp Compares to Other VLOPs
The VLOP designation is triggered when a platform exceeds 45 million monthly users in the European Union. WhatsApp announced in February that it had about 46.8 million EU users in the latter half of 2024, meeting this threshold. Alongside Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, WhatsApp now joins other major platforms like Amazon, Google, and ByteDance under this regulatory category.