EU tightens platform rules for ChatGPT, Reddit and Roblox

With user bases crossing 45 million in the EU, the three services must now strengthen safeguards against illegal content, protect minors and assess risks to fundamental rights, elections and public security.

The European Commission has brought ChatGPT, Reddit and Roblox under the European Union’s strictest digital platform oversight after the three services crossed the threshold of 45 million monthly active users within the bloc. The classification under the Digital Services Act (DSA) reflects their growing scale and influence over how users access, share and interact with digital content.

The Commission has classified ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine (VLOSE), while Reddit and Roblox have been designated Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs). The distinction is based on how the services operate under the DSA, with Reddit and Roblox allowing users to create and distribute third-party content, while ChatGPT has been assessed within the framework applicable to online search services.

Stricter rules for user safety and content risks

The new status places additional compliance responsibilities on all three services. They have four months to implement the requirements applicable to very large digital services under the DSA. Among the key obligations is the need to identify and address systemic risks arising from illegal content and the way users interact with their services.

The companies will also have to strengthen measures aimed at protecting children and limiting potential harm to users’ physical and mental well-being. The regulatory framework goes beyond conventional content moderation, requiring major platforms to examine how their services and systems could influence fundamental rights, public security and democratic processes, including electoral activity.

The requirements are particularly significant for platforms whose recommendation, content-distribution or search mechanisms can shape what millions of European users see and engage with. The DSA seeks greater accountability from such services by requiring them to assess potential risks associated with their design and operations and take appropriate steps to mitigate them.

European Commission to directly monitor compliance

Unlike smaller digital services that may fall under national-level supervision, VLOPs and VLOSEs are subject to direct oversight from the European Commission. The regulator has powers to investigate how designated services operate, including their platform features, recommendation mechanisms and other technical functionalities relevant to compliance.

The latest designations underline the EU’s broader effort to bring large-scale digital services under a common regulatory framework as their reach and influence continue to expand. The inclusion of ChatGPT is particularly notable as it demonstrates how AI-driven services are increasingly being brought within regulatory structures traditionally associated with large internet platforms and search providers.

ChatGPT, Reddit and Roblox must now complete the required measures within the four-month compliance period. Failure to fulfil their obligations could result in regulatory action from the European Commission.

The move reinforces the EU’s focus on making major digital services more transparent, accountable and safer for users. It also establishes a stronger regulatory precedent for AI-powered services as their adoption grows across Europe and their role in shaping online information and interactions becomes increasingly significant.