Digital Services Act (DSA): Financial expert calls for good implementation by 2024

Digital Services Act (DSA): Financial expert calls for good implementation by 2024

According to a report by netzpolitik.org, the federal government plans to implement the Digital Services Act (DSA) by February 2024 at the latest. The DSA was passed by the EU in order to give users more rights over online services. This includes, for example, establishing better complaint procedures and transparency obligations for service providers. The goal is to create a safe and trustworthy online environment.

The Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (VZBV) has now presented a position paper and a report that address the implementation and application issues of the DSA from the consumer's perspective. A central aspect is the question of the supervisory structure. The DSA stipulates that each EU country appoints a Digital Services Coordinator, with the specific responsibility being left to the member states. The VZBV prefers a one-authority structure in which one supervisory authority is responsible for everything. Should a multi-authority structure nevertheless arise, it is essential to set up a central complaints office for users.

In order to avoid conflicts of authority, legal provisions should be laid down for mandatory consultation and coordination processes between authorities. In addition, the independence of the authority is of great importance, both from politics and from the economy. This could be achieved, for example, through incompatibility requirements such as those in the law against restrictions on competition.

The VZBV also demands that the authority prepare regular activity reports in order to create trust. These reports should go beyond the EU's minimum requirements and contain information on violations and fine procedures. The authority should also conduct comprehensive public relations work and inform users about the status of their complaint, including the results of the review.

Another important aspect concerns access to data from online services for research purposes. This access must be designed to be practical in order to prevent service providers from evading disclosure by citing trade secrets. In addition, the accreditation process should ensure that non-governmental organizations and science have quick access to the requested data.

The implementation of the DSA and the consideration of the above-mentioned requirements of the VZBV have potential effects on both the market and consumers. Effective implementation of the DSA can lead to improved protection for users and create a safer online environment. At the same time, the requirements of the DSA must be implemented by service providers, which may lead to changes in their business models and practices.

Source: According to a report by netzpolitik.org, As netzpolitik.org reports