BIG TECH ACCUSED OF BLOCKING EU RESEARCHERS

European social media researchers have accused major tech companies of stonewalling their data requests, blocking access to information needed for studying platform algorithms and content moderation practices. TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Meta are the primary targets of the complaint. Researchers say the companies are not providing datasets mandated under the Digital Services Act (DSA), EU legislation that requires platforms to grant researchers access to algorithmic and moderation data. The DSA, which took effect in 2024, requires large online platforms to cooperate with independent researchers investigating systemic risks like misinformation, hate speech, and algorithm-driven radicalization. The law includes specific provisions allowing researchers to access data needed for their studies. According to researchers familiar with the situation, the companies are citing proprietary concerns and data privacy rules as reasons to deny or severely limit access. Some have imposed restrictive conditions that make meaningful research impossible, including prohibiting publication of findings. The European Commission, which oversees DSA compliance, is aware of the disputes. Researchers have filed formal complaints requesting intervention. The Commission has already launched separate investigations into Meta and TikTok's compliance with other DSA requirements. Meta has stated it provides researcher access through established programs but maintains strict data protection standards. TikTok and X have not issued detailed public responses to the accusations. The standoff highlights tensions between tech company interests in protecting proprietary systems and EU policy goals around platform transparency. Researchers argue access is essential to understand how algorithms function and what content moderation decisions platforms make—information the public and regulators need. The DSA allows the Commission to fine non-compliant platforms up to 6% of global revenue. Enforcement action on researcher access requirements remains unclear.