February 5, 2025 – The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is now fully authorized to enforce the Digital Services Act (DSA) following the approval of the Dutch implementing act by the Senate. The DSA, a European regulation aimed at ensuring a safer and fairer online environment, has been in effect since February 17, 2024.
ACM’s 2025 Priorities
ACM board member Manon Leijten emphasized that enforcement efforts this year will focus on:
1. Ensuring online platforms establish clear points of contact and effective content moderation systems.
2. Overseeing web hosting services, which are widespread in the Netherlands.
3. Launching a study on the protection of minors in digital spaces.
DSA Compliance & Enforcement
The DSA applies to intermediary services such as social media platforms, online marketplaces, and web hosting services. While the act does not define what content is legal, it holds platforms accountable for how they handle illegal content. To aid businesses, ACM has published DSA Guidelines, outlining compliance expectations, including transparent complaint-handling systems.
Cross-Border Collaboration & Consumer Reports
ACM will coordinate with Dutch and European regulators, forwarding consumer complaints about foreign-based services to the relevant authorities. Since the DSA’s implementation, ACM has already received 300 reports, mainly related to account restrictions, illegal content, and platform accessibility. Dutch consumers can submit complaints through ACM’s website.
Source: https://www.acm.nl/en/publications/acm-now-fully-authorized-enforce-digital-services-act
