EU: DMA violations, investigation opened against Google

Brussels, Nov. 13 (LaPresse) – The European Commission has formally launched a procedure to assess whether Google applies fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory conditions for access to publishers’ websites on Google Search, an obligation under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The Commission’s monitoring work has revealed that Google, based on its “site reputation abuse policy,” is downgrading the websites and content of media and other publishers in Google search results when those websites include content from commercial partners. According to Google, this policy aims to counter practices allegedly aimed at manipulating search result rankings. The Commission’s investigation focuses specifically on Google’s “site reputation abuse policy” and how that policy applies to publishers. This policy, it is explained, appears to have a direct impact on a common and legitimate way for publishers to monetize their websites and content. Therefore, the Commission is investigating whether Alphabet’s demotion of publishers’ websites and content in Google Search may affect publishers’ freedom to conduct legitimate commercial activities, innovate, and collaborate with third-party content providers. The initiation of proceedings does not prejudge the finding of non-compliance. It indicates that the Commission will continue with the case. If the Commission finds evidence of non-compliance, it will inform Alphabet of its preliminary conclusions and explain the measures it intends to take or that Alphabet should take to effectively address the Commission’s concerns. The Commission aims to conclude the investigation within 12 months of the opening of the proceedings.