Does Section 230 of the US Communication Decency Act protect users or tech platforms?

Typically, Section 230 of the US Communication Decency Act is considered to protect tech platforms from liability for the content provided. In a recent article, the Electronic Frontier Foundation argues that Section 230 protects users to participate in digital life.

The piece argues that repealing or altering Section 230 could inadvertently strengthen the position of big tech firms by removing the financial burden of litigation that smaller companies and startups cannot bear. Without these protections, smaller services might crumble under expensive legal challenges, stifling innovation and reducing competition in the digital landscape.

Such a scenario would leave big tech with even greater market dominance, which opponents of Section 230 seem to overlook. Additionally, the article addresses the misconception that eliminating Section 230 would enhance content moderation.

It clarifies that the law enables platforms to implement and enforce their standards without fear of increased liability, encouraging responsible moderation. EFF’s article argues that by allowing users and platforms to self-regulate, Section 230 prevents the US government from overreaching into defining acceptable speech, upholding a cornerstone of democratic values.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.