The European Commission's investigation into Snapchat: context, allegations, and possible developments

Translated by Annachiara Laino

In March 2026, the European Commission launched formal proceedings against the Snapchat platform, marking a new chapter in the growing regulation of large digital platforms in Europe. The investigation is part of the Digital Services Act (DSA), the European regulation that imposes stringent standards for online security, transparency, and user protection, particularly for minors.

The regulatory context: the Digital Services Act

The DSA is one of the pillars of the European Union's digital strategy. Established to regulate large online platforms, it imposes specific obligations on so-called "Very Large Online Platforms" (VLOPs), including Snapchat. These obligations concern the management of systemic risks, the moderation of illegal content, and the protection of vulnerable users.

In the case of Snapchat, the investigation stems precisely from suspicions that the platform is not fully complying with these obligations. The Commission based its decision on analyses of the risk reports provided by the company itself between 2023 and 2025, as well as additional information collected in 2025.

The main charges: safety and protection of minors

The core of the investigation concerns the protection of minors, one of the most sensitive issues for European institutions. According to the Commission, Snapchat could expose young users to several significant risks.

First, there are concerns about age verification. Currently, the platform relies primarily on user self-declaration, a system considered insufficient to prevent access by minors under 13 or to ensure an appropriate experience for teenagers.

A second critical aspect concerns the risk of grooming. Brussels suspects that adults may pretend to be their peers to connect with minors, potentially for the purpose of sexual exploitation or recruitment into illegal activities.

Furthermore, the Commission expressed concern about the dissemination of content promoting or facilitating access to illegal or prohibited products for minors, such as narcotics, cigarettes, and alcohol. The EU believes the platform's moderation systems are insufficient to effectively combat these phenomena.

Default settings and “dark pattern”

Another point under scrutiny concerns default account settings. The Commission believes that these do not guarantee an adequate level of privacy and security, especially for younger users. For example, certain features, such as automatic contact suggestions or default notifications, could expose minors to unwanted interactions.

Particular attention is also paid to so-called "dark patterns," which are interfaces designed to mislead users. According to European institutions, Snapchat could use these techniques, making it more difficult for users to understand or change their security and privacy settings.

Reporting and transparency mechanisms

The Commission also raised concerns about the effectiveness of systems for reporting illegal content. These tools, it alleges, are neither easily accessible nor intuitive, limiting users' ability to report abuse or harmful content.

This is particularly relevant in the context of the DSA, which requires platforms to offer clear and transparent mechanisms for reporting and addressing illegal content.

The possible consequences of the investigation

Opening a formal investigation grants the Commission broad powers. Brussels can request further information, conduct inspections, and, if violations are found, impose sanctions or corrective measures. Alternatively, Snapchat could propose voluntary commitments to comply with European regulations.

The investigation could last several months and represents an important test for the application of the DSA. This is not an isolated case: other large platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and X have already come under scrutiny by European authorities.

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