The Dutch media authority warned today that social media platforms are making it harder for people to form “free and informed opinions”, raising concerns about the growing influence of algorithms on news consumption, reports Anadolu.

In a new report cited by Dutch public broadcaster NOS, the regulator said more people in the Netherlands, especially young users, increasingly rely on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and X for news and information.

According to the report, algorithms determine which messages users see in their news feeds, often prioritizing shocking or controversial content that grabs attention and drives interaction.

The authority said social media companies have financial incentives to spread attention-grabbing content “even if it is unbelievable” while users have limited control over what appears in their news feeds.

The report raises concerns about practices such as “shadowbanning”, in which posts or accounts are made less visible without users being clearly informed.

The regulator further warned that platform owners are increasingly influencing what users see online, describing algorithm-driven feeds as “clearly dangerous to democracy”.

According to the report, algorithms can amplify polarizing, extreme or misleading information, contributing in social divisions and shaping public opinion.

The media authority called on policymakers and regulators to strengthen enforcement of existing European legislation to ensure healthier online information environments, NOS reported.

Source: prizrenpost