Fair Decisions for a Digital World.
We review moderation decisions made by online platforms—independently, with a solid legal foundation, and in accordance with the Digital Services Act. We do not pursue any political agenda and, like a state court, base our decisions solely on applicable law.
As an out-of-court dispute resolution body certified under Article 21 of the DSA, we help resolve conflicts between users and online platforms in a fair and transparent manner. Filing a complaint with Platform Control is free of charge for users, regardless of the outcome of the proceedings.
How we can help
Every day, online platforms make decisions about which content remains visible, is removed, or is restricted. These decisions can have a significant impact on the users affected.
Within the scope of its authority, Platform Control reviews whether such decisions are consistent with applicable laws and the platform’s Terms of Use. Proceedings may involve actions taken against accounts or the platform’s own content, as well as decisions regarding reported third-party content.
Account Suspensions
Has your user account been suspended, deactivated, demonetized, or restricted in some way? We'll review whether the action was justified.
Deleted Posts
Was a comment, review, photo, or video removed? We'll review whether the decision is legally and contractually justified.
Illegal Content
Did you report content that may be illegal, but the platform didn't take any action? Decisions like these can also be reviewed.
Visibility and Demonetization
Has your reach been limited, has content been flagged, or has your ability to monetize been restricted? We'll investigate whether the action is justified.
The Digital Services Act establishes new rights and remedies.
With the Digital Services Act, the European Union has established a uniform legal framework for digital intermediary services. A key objective is to strengthen users' rights and ensure greater transparency and accountability in the moderation of online content.
Section 21 of the DSA allows users to have certain disputes regarding moderation decisions reviewed by certified alternative dispute resolution bodies.
Our decisions are based on a legal assessment of each individual case. In doing so, we take into account, in particular, the relevant provisions of European and national law, as well as the applicable terms of use of the respective platform.
Decisions made by an out-of-court dispute resolution body under Article 21 of the DSA are not legally binding. However, they allow for an independent assessment and can help resolve conflicts without resorting to court proceedings.
We want to do our part to ensure that fundamental rights can be realized in the digital realm.
Online platforms have long since become more than just technical conduits for information. They are central spaces for social communication, economic activity, and the formation of democratic opinion.
Decisions regarding the visibility and availability of content can therefore directly affect freedom of expression, freedom of enterprise, and other interests protected by fundamental rights.
At the same time, the rights of other users must be protected, such as their personal rights, their privacy, or their intellectual property rights.
We therefore examine not only whether a platform was justified in removing or restricting content, but also whether, in the specific case, it appropriately took into account the rights and interests of the parties involved.
Independent decisions. Greater transparency.
Platform Control comes into play when users and online platforms disagree on the legality of a moderation decision.
We review complaints independently, analyze the legal and factual basis of the contested decision, and issue a reasoned decision resolving the dispute.
We handle both straightforward disputes and complex legal issues, such as those related to freedom of speech, personal rights, copyright, or the interpretation of platform guidelines.
A digital space that is open to everyone.
We are committed to a digital space in which freedom of expression, personal rights, and social participation are equally respected.
We want to help ensure that online platforms correctly apply their terms and conditions and comply with applicable law.
After all, an open digital society needs transparent rules and fair decisions.
Do you disagree with a platform decision?
Have the decision reviewed by an independent party. Submit your complaint online to Platform Control.
File a complaint now →