ChatGPT first AI chatbot to face tougher EU rules

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 1, 2026

The European Union has classified ChatGPT as a “very large” digital platform under its Digital Services Act, subjecting the AI chatbot to enhanced regulatory oversight alongside platforms like Reddit and Roblox. This designation requires OpenAI to comply with strict rules aimed at mitigating risks related to illegal content, user safety, and fundamental rights, marking a significant step in regulating major AI systems within the EU.

The European Union has designated ChatGPT as the first artificial intelligence chatbot to be subjected to enhanced regulatory scrutiny under new digital safety rules. On Monday, Brussels added ChatGPT to its list of digital services classified as “very large” platforms, which are subject to stricter oversight under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The move also included the Reddit forum and the online gaming platform Roblox, marking a significant step in the bloc’s efforts to regulate influential online services.

The “very large” platform status applies to digital services with over 45 million monthly active users within the 27 EU member states. ChatGPT, developed by the US-based company OpenAI, reported more than 159 million users in Europe at the end of March, surpassing this threshold by a wide margin. Reddit and Roblox similarly met the user criteria, with Reddit claiming over 57 million monthly users in the EU and Roblox reporting 46.6 million active players.

EU technology chief Henna Virkkunen emphasized that these platforms will now face heightened accountability in recognition of their significant impact on European users and society. The DSA imposes obligations such as assessing and mitigating risks related to the spread of illegal content, protecting minors, safeguarding users’ mental and physical well-being, defending fundamental rights, safeguarding electoral processes, and ensuring public security. To bring ChatGPT under these regulations, the commission classified the AI chatbot as a search engine.

OpenAI stated it is preparing to comply with the new requirements, while Roblox expressed pride at being the first gaming platform to receive the “very large” label. Joost Hagesteijn, general manager for Europe at Roblox, highlighted the company’s commitment to safety and engagement with the European Commission.

The decision follows ongoing EU efforts to increase regulatory enforcement of major technology companies, many of which are US-based, despite opposition and warnings of retaliation from the United States. The DSA is part of a broader strategy including the EU’s AI Act, which became effective in 2024 and introduces progressively tighter controls on artificial intelligence technologies to prevent misuse.

Lena-Maria Boswald from the German tech think tank Interface noted that the designation of ChatGPT sets a precedent that could shape regulatory expectations for other large generative AI systems operating in the EU. She pointed out that while OpenAI already complies with risk management obligations under the AI Act, the DSA’s requirements may extend the scope of regulatory oversight.

Currently, about 30 digital services fall under the heightened scrutiny of the DSA, including platforms owned by Google, Apple, Microsoft, TikTok, Amazon, and others, as well as less conventional services such as Wikipedia and various adult content sites. Companies found in violation face substantial penalties, which can reach up to six percent of their global annual turnover. In cases of repeated and serious breaches, they risk being banned from operating within the European market.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.