Improving Regulatory Oversight in Online Content Moderation

TL;DR

This paper proposes two validation processes to improve transparency and accountability in online content moderation under the EU's Digital Services Act, addressing data inconsistencies and reporting challenges.

Contribution

It introduces a Transparency Report Cross-Checking and Verification Process to enhance data accuracy and compliance in platform reporting.

Findings

Detects inconsistencies between self-reported and actual platform data

Assesses compliance levels to improve transparency

Provides a method for self-assessment and better reporting practices

Abstract

The European Union introduced the Digital Services Act (DSA) to address the risks associated with digital platforms and promote a safer online environment. However, despite the potential of components such as the Transparency Database, Transparency Reports, and Article 40 of the DSA to improve platform transparency, significant challenges remain. These include data inconsistencies and a lack of detailed information, which hinder transparency in content moderation practices. Additionally, the absence of standardized reporting structures makes cross-platform comparisons and broader analyses difficult. To address these issues, we propose two complementary processes: a Transparency Report Cross-Checking Process and a Verification Process. Their goal is to provide both internal and external validation by detecting possible inconsistencies between self-reported and actual platform data, assessing compliance levels, and ultimately enhancing transparency while improving the overall effectiveness of the DSA in ensuring accountability in content moderation. Additionally, these processes can benefit policymakers by providing more accurate data for decision-making, independent researchers with trustworthy analysis, and platforms by offering a method for self-assessment and improving compliance and reporting practices.