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European Regulators Target Snapchat Over Alleged Safety Failures

By  |  March 26, 2026

European regulators have opened a formal investigation into Snapchat, the social media platform owned by Snap Inc., over concerns that it may be failing to adequately protect minors and curb illegal activity on its service.

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    The probe, announced Thursday (March 26), is being carried out under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), a sweeping law designed to hold major online platforms accountable for harmful and illegal content. According to Reuters, companies found in violation of the rules could face penalties of up to 6% of their global annual revenue.

    Regulators say Snapchat may not be doing enough to prevent child grooming or limit the spread of illicit goods on its platform. According to Reuters, the European Commission believes the company lacks sufficient safeguards to stop minors from being contacted by individuals seeking to exploit them sexually or involve them in criminal activities.

    EU technology chief Henna Virkkunen raised concerns about the platform’s overall safety standards, noting that several features may fall short of the DSA’s requirements. She pointed to risks ranging from grooming to exposure to illegal products, as well as account settings that may undermine protections for younger users.

    The Commission also flagged weaknesses in Snapchat’s content moderation systems. According to Reuters, regulators believe these tools are not effectively preventing the circulation of information directing users to illegal goods, including drugs and age-restricted items such as alcohol and vaping products.

    Related: Russia Blocks Snapchat and FaceTime in Expanding Crackdown

    The investigation will incorporate an earlier case initiated by Dutch authorities in September, which focused on the alleged sale of vapes to minors through the platform. Per Reuters, the European Commission will now take over that inquiry as part of its broader examination.

    Additional concerns highlighted by regulators include Snapchat’s age verification system, which relies on self-declared information and is viewed as insufficient. Authorities also questioned the platform’s default account settings and the mechanisms available for users to report potentially manipulative or harmful design practices.

    Snapchat responded by stating that it continues to review and improve its safety measures. The company emphasized its ongoing cooperation with regulators and said it has been working proactively and transparently to meet the standards set out under EU law.

    The case marks another significant test of the Digital Services Act as European officials ramp up enforcement against major technology platforms.

    Source: Reuters