Amazon is challenging its classification as a major online platform subject to stricter regulations under the forthcoming European Union digital rules.

The tech giant has filed a legal challenge with the European General Court, arguing that it is being treated unfairly by being designated a “very large online platform” under the EU’s Digital Services Act.

This move makes Amazon the first Silicon Valley tech giant to push back against the new standards, which aim to impose greater responsibilities on the largest tech companies to ensure user safety and combat illegal content and questionable products.

Violations of the Digital Services Act could result in substantial fines or even a ban on operating within the EU, the Associated Press reported.

The Digital Services Act, set to come into effect on August 25, is part of Europe’s efforts to establish itself as a leader in regulating social media companies and digital platforms.

Amazon is one of the 19 companies classified as the largest online platforms and search engines under this legislation.

As such, it will be required to enhance its policing efforts to protect European users from hate speech, disinformation, and other harmful online content.

While the European Commission, the EU’s executive body, refrained from commenting directly on the case, it expressed its intention to defend its position in court.

Written by staff