WhatsApp has reached a significant user milestone mandated by new European Union technology regulations, according to a statement from the Meta Platforms-owned messaging service, necessitating enhanced efforts to combat illegal and harmful online content.
In a document filed on February 14, WhatsApp reported approximately 46.8 million average monthly active users within the 27-nation EU during the six months leading up to December 2024, surpassing the 45-million-user benchmark outlined in the Digital Services Act (DSA).
European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier confirmed via email on Wednesday, stating, “We can indeed confirm that WhatsApp has published user numbers above the threshold for designation as a Very Large Online Platform under the Digital Services Act.”
Upon receiving this designation, WhatsApp is required to comply with DSA standards within a four-month timeframe. This includes the responsibilities of identifying and evaluating risks related to illegal content, safeguarding fundamental rights, ensuring public safety, and protecting minors.
The penalties for failing to adhere to DSA regulations can amount to 6 percent of a company’s total annual global revenue. Notably, Meta’s other platforms, Instagram and Facebook, have already been designated as very large online platforms.
Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg and chief lobbyist Joel Kaplan have publicly voiced their opposition to EU tech regulations, seeking support from figures such as former U.S. President Donald Trump.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
