ICTRecht - Header - Groningen (11)

    What does the Digital Services Act mean for your organisation?

    Since 17 February 2024, the Digital Services Act (DSA) is fully applicable. This European law brings significant changes to the digital domain. It establishes clear rules for online platforms and other intermediary services. What does this mean in practice for your organisation?

    Read more
    Scroll voor meer informatie

    Everything you need to know about the Digital Services Act

    Our factsheet provides a complete overview of all the important information about the DSA and its implications for your organisation. It helps you understand the exact steps needed to become compliant.

    Download now

    Visual Voorkant DSA

    What is the Digital Services Act?

    The Digital Services Act (DSA) is a European regulation that applies directly in all Member States. It updates the legal framework from the e-Commerce Directive of 2000, setting out new rules on liability and responsibilities for online platforms and intermediary services. Its goals: a safer, more trustworthy digital environment, support for innovation, and a stronger protection of fundamental rights.

    Who must comply with the DSA?

    The DSA applies to intermediation services. A legal term for services that transfer information from A to B. The DSA distinguishes three different forms of an intermediary service:

    • Mere conduit services (transmission services): services that facilitate the transmission of information over a communication network.
    • Caching services: services that transmit information over a communication network and automatically store it temporarily. This makes subsequent transmission of the information more efficient.
    • Hosting services: services that store information and make it accessible to third parties. The DSA focuses primarily on these services.
    L1853071

    What are general obligations?

    The most important obligations of the DSA are:

    • Liability: platforms are not liable for user content, unless they have knowledge of illegal information.
    • Carefulness & transparency: new obligations for content moderation, reporting, and communication with authorities.
    • Reporting: annual publication of a report on moderation, received complaints, and the use of automated tools.

    Are there any exceptions?

    Micro and small organisations are excluded from certain obligations. A small organisation is an organisation with fewer than 50 employees and has an annual turnover of less than 10 million euros. A micro-organisation is an organisation with fewer than 10 employees and has an annual turnover not exceeding the 2 million euros.

    FAQ about the Digital Services Act

    When did the DSA come into effect?

    The DSA has been fully applicable since 17 February 2024.

    Does the DSA apply to small platforms?

    Yes. Platforms with fewer than 45 million monthly active users fall within the scope of the DSA. This includes platforms where consumers can purchase from traders, such as Marktplaats.

    Looking for more information?

    Fill out the form for more information. A legal advisor will contact you shortly.

    Every request starts with a no-obligation introductory meeting. This can be by phone, at our office, or at your location.

    Submit your details