The DSA requires providers of hosting services, including cloud services or online platforms, to notify law enforcement or judicial authorities when they become aware of information indicating a suspected criminal offence involving a threat to the life or safety of a person or persons. This may include offences such as incitement to terrorism, sexual abuse and exploitation of children and trafficking in human beings.
This consultation aims to gather feedback on the functioning of the notification process from providers of hosting services to law enforcement authorities or judicial authorities, in areas that warrant further clarification, including the criminal offences considered in scope of the article. The initiative is conducted by the European Board for Digital Services (the Board), in the context of its Working Group 7, which focuses on cooperation with law enforcement authorities and illegal content.
The Board is an independent advisory group established by the DSA, composed of the Digital Services Coordinators (DSCs) and chaired by the European Commission. Amongst others, the Board aims to ensure Article 18 DSA is applied consistently across the Member States and to support DSCs in monitoring and supervising compliance.
The Commission invites all stakeholders with relevant experience and expertise in the notification process under Article 18 DSA, including DSCs, law enforcement and judicial authorities, providers of hosting services, researchers, civil society organisations, trusted flaggers and internet hotlines, to share their views, good practices, recommendations and related evidence by 09 January 2026 (deadline extended!).