Meta may need to disable infinite scroll and autoplay by default across Facebook and Instagram after the European Commission issued preliminary Digital Services Act findings on July 10. A confirmed breach could bring a fine of up to 6% of global annual turnover.
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The European Commission said Meta failed to properly assess how Facebook and Instagram design can affect physical and mental health, especially among minors and vulnerable adults.
Investigators focused on systems that remove natural stopping points and continually offer new content. The Commission said these features can place users in an autopilot pattern and encourage excessive late-night use.
“Evidence also shows that Meta’s current mitigation measures failed to effectively tackle the risks stemming from its addictive design,” the Commission wrote. “For example, Instagram’s and Facebook’s time management tools, including those activated by default for teens, can be easily dismissed and do not lead to a meaningful reduction and control of the usage of the service.”
Brussels wants stronger screen-time breaks and recommendation systems that rely less on keeping users engaged. It also wants Meta to turn off infinite scroll and autoplay as standard settings.
Meta disputes the assessment and points to Teen Accounts, parental controls and time limits as evidence of its work to protect younger users. The findings remain preliminary, so no fine or compulsory redesign has yet taken effect.
The case follows an EU investigation opened in April 2024. A second 2026 finding said Meta had not done enough to identify and limit Facebook and Instagram use among children below the minimum age of 13.
Meta also faces youth safety litigation in the United States. Four states are seeking about $1.4 trillion in penalties over claims that Facebook and Instagram harmed young users and misled the public about platform safety.
No. Meta has received preliminary findings and can respond before the Commission reaches a final decision.
The case covers infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications and highly personalised recommendation algorithms.
The Digital Services Act allows a fine of up to 6% of total global annual turnover.
No final requirement applies yet. However, the Commission wants Meta to disable infinite scroll and autoplay by default.