Meta Platforms, Google, and TikTok have come under fire from consumer protection organisations in Europe over alleged fake advertisements on their platforms. These claims come because there might not be complete protection for users against scams through such advertisements.
Google, Meta and TikTok Face EU Complaints Over Financial Scam Ads
These claims have been made collectively by the European Consumer Organization (BEUC) and its 29 national member organizations operating in 27 European countries. The complaints have been lodged under the Digital Services Act (DSA), which requires the relevant online platforms to take necessary actions to deal with illegal online content.
Consumer Groups Raise Concerns Over Scam Ad Protection
Consumer groups say the platforms are not doing enough to stop fraudulent advertisements from appearing, and also respond slowly when such scams are reported. According to them, this situation leaves millions of users across Europe exposed to financial fraud risks and potential losses.
Also worth noting is that many scam advertisements posted were not taken down, which brings into question whether the sites themselves have been enforcing their safety regulations as well as the EU’s.
Platforms Respond to Allegations
Google, Meta, and TikTok have rejected the complaints and defended their current systems. Google stated that it blocks more than 99% of violating ads before they appear and continues to strengthen its detection systems. Meta said it removed over 159 million scam ads last year, with a majority blocked before user reports. The company also said it uses advanced AI tools and partnerships to detect and prevent fraudulent activity.
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TikTok said it actively removes violating content and described scam advertising as an industry-wide challenge, noting that bad actors continuously change their tactics. The consumer groups have urged regulators to investigate whether the companies are complying with EU rules and to take action if necessary. Under the Digital Services Act, penalties for violations can reach up to 6% of a company’s global annual revenue. News source eTimes Pakistan.
