EU: X faces criticism for its deceptive use of the blue verification checkmark

X designed and operates its interface for 'verified accounts' with the 'blue checkmark' in a manner that does not adhere to industry standard practices, deceiving users," reported the Commission in a preliminary investigation.

According to the Commission, "the fact that anyone can obtain 'verified' status negatively impacts users' ability to make informed decisions about the authenticity of accounts."

"There is evidence that malicious actors are abusing 'verified accounts' to deceive users," the Commission added.

Furthermore, the Commission noted that "X does not meet required standards of transparency in advertising, as it does not provide a reliable and easily accessible advertising repository."

According to the EU, platform X "does not provide access to its public data to researchers," failing to comply with current regulations in the region.

"We will impose fines and demand significant changes," warned Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Market, referring to potential actions against Elon Musk's platform.