European researchers face repeated blocks when seeking social media data under the DSA. TikTok denied a key request on Romanian election disinformation. X paid a €120M fine for barriers but agreed to reforms. Platforms defend their tools while academics warn of growing knowledge gaps on systemic risks. The struggle reveals deep tensions in turning regulation into evidence-based oversight.
Meta launched Facebook Verified on July 24, a free badge earned through a quick video selfie that matches against profile photos. Aimed at distinguishing real users from AI bots on Marketplace, Dating and Groups, the no-cost feature rolls out globally in phases. It differs sharply from paid verification programs while raising fresh questions about biometric data storage.
|
