EU Accuses Meta of Addictive Design in Landmark DSA Probe

The Commission points to specific engagement-driven features—namely infinite scroll, autoplay video, and personalized recommendation algorithms—as primary culprits that force users into a state of autopilot. Officials argue that these design choices prioritize retention over the physical and mental health of vulnerable adults and minors. Furthermore, the report dismisses Meta’s current mitigation efforts, noting that existing time management tools are easily bypassed and parental controls remain too cumbersome for the average user to implement effectively.

To achieve compliance, Brussels is pushing for a shift in core product mechanics, including disabling infinite scroll by default and stripping the recommendation engine of its aggressive, engagement-first bias. While Meta is currently mounting a defense, the stakes are rising: a final ruling could trigger fines of up to 6 percent of the company’s global annual turnover, a figure based on its $200.97 billion revenue in 2025. This scrutiny arrives as the EU mulls a broader blocwide ban on social media access for those under 16, adding further pressure to a company already facing a $1.4 trillion lawsuit in the United States over similar allegations of intentional addiction.