On 14 October, the General Court of the European Union dismissed the action brought by Stripchat operator Technius. It upheld the European Commission’s December 2023 decision to subject the platform to the additional requirements of the Digital Services Act (DSA). The court found that the Commission had given adequate reasons for its decision and had clearly explained its calculation method.
The dispute over user numbers
The platform’s audience was central to the dispute. Technius had reported around 31.8 million monthly active users in the EU. The Commission calculated more than 62 million – above the relevant threshold of 45 million.
Both sides used data from analytics provider Similarweb but interpreted it differently. In the court’s view, Stripchat had artificially reduced its user count by making additional deductions.
A subsequent correction is noteworthy: Similarweb changed its methodology and calculated only around 37.3 million users for the relevant period. However, the court held that this did not make the original decision unlawful. What mattered were the circumstances at the time the decision was adopted.
The responsibilities of large platforms
The DSA imposes additional obligations on very large online platforms. They must assess systemic risks associated with their services and take measures to mitigate them. These include risks arising from illegal content, as well as potential negative effects on minors and on physical or mental well-being.
The European Commission monitors compliance with these additional requirements. Breaches can result in fines of up to six per cent of worldwide annual turnover. The ruling itself imposes no such fine.
Child protection depends on enforcement
On 26 March 2026, the Commission had already issued preliminary findings that Stripchat, Pornhub, XNXX and XVideos had failed to adequately protect minors from accessing pornographic content. The companies were given the opportunity to examine the investigation files and respond. These preliminary findings must be distinguished from a final decision.
The latest ruling, by contrast, concerns the lawfulness of Stripchat’s designation. Technius may bring an appeal before the Court of Justice of the European Union, limited to points of law.
Platform responsibility and mindful consumption
The debate about pornography use therefore involves two levels of responsibility. Providers are responsible for the design and safety of their services. Adults can also reflect on their own habits – including the role pornography plays in everyday life and whether their use aligns with their needs.
From an educational perspective centred on personal autonomy, these approaches complement each other. Platform rules aim to establish reliable safeguards. Individual reflection starts with personal choices. Whether the European requirements fulfil their purpose will also depend on how consistently they are enforced in practice.
Sources and further reading
European Commission: Overview of the Digital Services Act and its enforcement, 22 September 2025
