Japan investigates X for non-compliance with the harmful content law
Regulators say X may be in breach of Japan’s online safety law by forcing non-users to register before requesting the removal of harmful or defamatory posts.
Japanese regulators are reviewing whether the social media platform X fails to comply with new content removal rules.
The law, which took effect in April, requires designated platforms to allow victims of harmful online posts to request deletion without facing unnecessary obstacles.
X currently obliges non-users to register an account before they can file such requests. Officials say that it could represent an excessive burden for victims who violate the law.
The company has also been criticised for not providing clear public guidance on submitting removal requests, prompting questions over its commitment to combating online harassment and defamation.
Other platforms, including YouTube and messaging service Line, have already introduced mechanisms that meet the requirements.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has urged all operators to treat non-users like registered users when responding to deletion demands. Still, X and the bulletin board site bakusai.com have yet to comply.
As said, it will continue to assess whether X’s practices breach the law. Experts on a government panel have called for more public information on the process, arguing that awareness could help deter online abuse.
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