The European Commission has opted to cease advertising on the social media platform X, citing concerns regarding the rampant spread of disinformation, as per a report by

Politico on November 19, 2023.

A leaked internal memo from Dana Spinant, the commission's deputy chief spokeswoman, relayed this decision to department heads and directors-general. The note highlighted the Commission's apprehension about disinformation on X, particularly in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, prompting the recommendation to suspend advertising on the platform temporarily. This move aimed to avert potential damage to the Commission's reputation.

While EU services can continue using the platform for communication purposes, the commission's communications department has issued a directive to cease paid advertising on X.

X has faced mounting scrutiny in light of the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA), designed to shield users from digital misconduct such as disinformation. The memo explicitly cautioned against purchasing ads that target user profiles based on sensitive personal data, stressing that such actions would violate the DSA. Spinant emphasized the necessity for the Commission's advertising to meticulously adhere to the principles outlined in the regulatory framework governing major online platforms.

Furthermore, the note outlined the department's intent to explore alternative social media platforms or digital advertising avenues on websites, seeking to diversify its online presence.