EU Places ChatGPT, Reddit, Roblox Under Stricter Digital Rules

The European Commission on Monday designated ChatGPT, Reddit, and Roblox under the strictest tier of its online regulations, giving the US-based services four months to comply with new rules.

ChatGPT was classified as a Very Large Online Search Engine (VLOSE), while Reddit and Roblox were designated as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) under the Digital Services Act (DSA). All three reported at least 45 million average monthly users in the EU, exceeding the threshold for heightened oversight. The companies now have until the end of December to comply with additional requirements, including assessing and mitigating systemic risks related to illegal content, minors, users' physical and mental well-being, fundamental rights, elections, and public security.

Violations of the DSA can result in fines of up to 6% of a company's annual global turnover. OpenAI and Reddit stated they are preparing to comply with the new requirements, while Roblox pledged to continue working constructively with Brussels. The DSA and its competition-focused sister law, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), have become a source of friction with Washington.

US President Donald Trump has ordered officials to scrutinize EU digital rules that could force American companies to moderate content in ways that undermine freedom of speech and political engagement. Vice President J.D. Vance has also accused Europe of retreating from free speech, stating that digital censorship is being presented as a defense of democracy.