“Trusted flaggers” are entities specialized in detecting illegal content on the Internet.
llegal content at EU level can include, for example, child sexual abuse material, terrorist content, hate speech, unsafe or counterfeit products, use of private images (photos, videos) without consent, use of copyrighted material without authorisation. What constitutes illegal content is defined in the EU/national legal framework. Where content is considered illegal only in one Member State, it is generally removed only in that territory. Platform providers should give priority consideration to notices submitted to them by the above-mentioned entities, as they are more accurate.
For entities based in Greece, the competent authority for awarding the status of trusted flagger is the Hellenic Telecommunications and Post Commission (EETT), which has been designated as the Digital Services Coordinator (DSC).
Trusted flaggers must meet the following conditions (Article 22 of the Digital Services Act):
- Particular expertise and competence to detect, identify and notify illegal content.
- Independence from any online platform provider.
- Diligence, accuracy, and objectivity in detecting and identifying illegal content and submitting notices to platform providers.
The award of the status by EETT is valid for three years.