WhatsApp Faces Enhanced Regulation from EU Under Digital Services Act

Growth of WhatsApp Channels in Europe Prompting Stricter Oversight

WhatsApp, a communication app owned by Meta, may soon encounter heightened examination and potential penalties as mandated by the European Union via the Digital Services Act. The app's feature, WhatsApp Channels, has boomed to about 51.7 million monthly active users within the European Union over the first half of 2025, surpassing the 45 million user threshold that triggers DSA regulations.

Definition of Very Large Online Platform (VLOP)

According to the European Commission, any platform with a user base of 45 million or more each month is categorized as a Very Large Online Platform. This classification makes the platform subject to the DSA's comprehensive guidelines, especially in the context of managing and eliminating unlawful or harmful content. Non-compliance can result in companies facing fines up to six percent of their global yearly income.

WhatsApp Channels: A Shift Towards Public Broadcasting

While WhatsApp is traditionally known for private messaging, its Channels feature has introduced an element of public broadcasting, drawing parallels to Meta's other social networks like Facebook and Instagram. A representative from the Commission mentioned the likelihood of labeling WhatsApp Channels for scrutiny and confirmed active consideration by the Commission, hinting at a forthcoming classification.

Engadget has reached out to Meta for their perspective on this prospective new classification for WhatsApp. Updates will be provided contingent upon receiving a response.

A History of Regulatory Challenges for Meta

The potential for WhatsApp to become a regulatory focal point within the EU was first acknowledged in November 2025. Nonetheless, Meta has faced penalties for DSA violations well before this date due to the methods used on Facebook and Instagram for reporting illicit content. Additionally, a Dutch court recently determined that Meta must alter how it displays timelines on its apps, as it currently undermines the ability of users in the Netherlands to freely and independently decide on using profiled recommendation systems.