EU consumer groups file complaints against Google, Meta, and TikTok over online scams

EU consumer groups have filed complaints against Google, Meta, and TikTok over allegations of inadequate protections against online financial scams. The companies face scrutiny for handling of financial scams and cryptocurrency ads. The complaints highlight the importance of stricter regulations.

A coalition of European consumer groups has filed formal complaints against GOOGL Google, META Meta Platforms, and TikTok, alleging that the platforms fail to adequately protect users from online financial scams and deceptive cryptocurrency advertising. The filings are expected to be reviewed under the EU's Digital Services Act, which imposes obligations on Very Large Online Platforms to address illegal content and systemic risks.

The complaints zero in on cryptocurrency investment ads, romance scams routed through messaging surfaces, and impersonation of well-known financial brands. Consumer groups argue that despite repeated commitments from the platforms, enforcement has been inconsistent, and reported scam volumes continue to rise across all three services.

If the European Commission opens formal investigations, Google, Meta, and TikTok could face fines of up to 6% of global revenue under the DSA, alongside mandated platform changes. The case adds to mounting regulatory pressure on US tech platforms in Europe and may foreshadow tighter ad-vetting requirements that crimp short-term advertising growth.

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