DIGITAL SERVICES ACT

What is the Digital Services Act?

The Digital Services Act (DSA) is part of the EU’s broader digital regulatory framework, alongside the Digital Markets Act (DMA). While the DMA focuses on the obligations of large “gatekeepers,” the DSA applies more broadly to various types of online intermediary services. In practice, this includes a significant share of online service providers – ranging from hosting services and online platforms to very large platforms and search engines.

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Which services fall under the DSA?

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The DSA applies progressively to different categories of online intermediary services:

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• Intermediary services: such as internet access providers and domain registrars.

• Hosting services: services that store user-generated content, such as web hosting or search engine advertising services.

• Online platforms: services that allow users to store and publish content – for example, social media platforms and online marketplaces.

• Very large online platforms and search engines: services with more than 45 million monthly users in the EU. These entities are subject to the most extensive obligations and EU-level supervision.
   

The obligations increase in tiers: intermediary services have the lightest requirements, while very large platforms and search engines face the most comprehensive ones.

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What does the DSA require from service providers?

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The DSA establishes obligations for intermediary services that emphasise transparency, accountability, and user protection. Depending on the type of service, key requirements include, for example:
 

• Establishing points of contact for communication with authorities and users.

• Updating terms of service to comply with the DSA, including descriptions of content moderation procedures.

• Transparency reporting on measures taken concerning illegal content.

• Notice and action mechanisms for illegal content, as well as reporting obligations to authorities in cases of suspected criminal activity.

• Complaint-handling procedures and measures to prevent misuse on platforms.

• Ensuring advertising transparency.

• Displaying the necessary information on online marketplaces.

Micro and small enterprises are exempt from some of these obligations.
Very large platforms and search engines, however, face additional duties, including enhanced transparency reporting, independent audits, and cooperation with supervisory authorities.

Why is DSA compliance important?
 

The DSA obligations create a broad yet opportunity-rich framework. Beyond avoiding sanctions, compliance provides a chance to stand out positively: responsibility, transparency, and user protection are principles that customers generally value.

Download our DSA guide to explore the key steps in more detail.