EU investigates Apple, Google, and Microsoft over handling of online scams

The European Union is intensifying its examination of major tech firms, specifically Apple, Google, and Microsoft, to determine if they are effectively combating online financial fraud. This initiative comes as the EU's technology chief, Henna Virkkunen, announced that formal requests for information would be dispatched to these companies and Booking Holdings, a global accommodation service, utilizing the authority granted by the Digital Services Act. Virkkunen expressed concerns about the rising prevalence of online criminal activities, emphasizing the necessity for digital platforms to enhance their efforts in identifying and thwarting illegal content. "We see that more and more criminal actions are taking place online," she remarked, highlighting the urgency of the situation. This move could pave the way for a more formal investigation and the possibility of imposing fines on these tech giants. It occurs against a backdrop of increasing transatlantic tensions regarding the EU's digital regulations. U.S. President Donald Trump has previously indicated intentions to impose tariffs on countries perceived to disadvantage American companies. The inquiry will focus on the practices of individual companies rather than their geographical locations. Particular attention will be given to how Apple and Google manage fraudulent applications in their app stores, including deceptive banking apps. Additionally, regulators will investigate the authenticity of search results provided by Google and Microsoft’s Bing. The EU is also seeking clarity on how Booking Holdings, which operates Booking.com from Amsterdam, is addressing fake accommodation listings, making it the only European-based entity among those under scrutiny.