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Netherlands Investigates Snapchat Over Vape Sales and Minor Protection

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The Dutch consumer watchdog ACM has opened an investigation into Snapchat, accusing the platform of failing to adequately protect minors from illegal vape sellers, potentially breaching the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA).

Key Details

  • Allegation: Snapchat may not be doing enough to stop vape sales targeting under-18s.

  • Regulation: The DSA obliges platforms to provide strong safeguards for minors and prevent illegal sales.

  • ACM stance: “We see enough indications of possible DSA breaches by Snapchat to open an investigation.”

  • Collaboration: ACM is working with the European Commission on the case.

Snapchat’s Response

  • Snap Inc. said it takes the issue seriously and will cooperate.

  • The company noted it has:

    • Invested heavily in proactive detection technology.

    • Banned advertising of vapes.

    • Attempted to block illicit content in searches.

  • A spokesperson admitted no system can “eliminate every threat online.”

Why It Matters

  • This is one of the first DSA-related probes into how platforms enforce rules on harmful and illegal products.

  • Highlights growing European scrutiny of U.S. social media firms.

  • The case could set a precedent for how regulators handle youth protection and illicit product sales online.

No timeline for the investigation has been provided.