European Union
EU Digital Services Act
Article 34
2022
Risk Assessment Requirements for Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines
Obligation:
Providers of very large online platforms and very large online search engines are required to diligently identify, analyze, and assess systemic risks within the European Union that arise from:
The design or functioning of their services and related systems (including algorithmic systems)
The use made of their services by users
Timing and Frequency of Risk Assessments
Initial assessments must be conducted by the application date referred to in Article 33(6), second subparagraph
Thereafter, assessments must be conducted at least once per year
A new assessment must also be conducted prior to the deployment of any functionalities that may critically impact the identified risks
Scope and Proportionality of Risk Assessments
Assessments must be specific to the service in question
They must be proportionate to the level of systemic risk, considering:
Severity of the risk
Probability of its occurrence
Systemic Risks to Be Assessed (Selected Example)
The risk assessment must include evaluation of:
Any actual or foreseeable negative effects related to:
Gender-based violence
Protection of public health and minors
Serious negative consequences to a person’s physical and mental well-being
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