The European Commission has taken action to address the potential risks posed by generative artificial intelligence by issuing formal requests for information under the Digital Services Act to eight major online platforms and search engines, including Google Search, Bing, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, and an unnamed platform (likely X). These platforms must provide detailed information regarding their strategies to mitigate generative AI concerns such as the production of misleading or false information (“hallucinations”), as well as efforts to combat deepfakes, automated manipulation tactics, and the societal impact of generative AI on elections.

The request also extends to other significant issues, requiring the platforms to describe their approaches to tackling illegal content, protecting fundamental rights, preventing gender-based violence, and safeguarding minors, mental health, personal data, consumer interests, and intellectual property. This initiative reflects the Commission’s proactive stance in monitoring the responsible use of generative AI on major platforms, aiming to establish a safe and reliable online environment for European citizens through potential future regulations or guidelines based on the gathered information.