WhatsApp has hit a user criterion set out in landmark EU tech rules, the unit owned by Meta Platforms said, meaning it is required to do more to tackle online illegal and harmful content.

Users of EU-designated Very Large Online Platforms get specific rights when it comes to the use of their data.

Meta Platforms Inc.’s messaging service WhatsApp reached a crucial user milestone likely to bind it to more stringent rules under the European Union’s Digital Services Act.

WhatsApp has been officially designated as a Very Large Online Platform by the European Union. The designation means WhatsApp needs to moderate the app to tackle illegal content and public security risks.

The DSA content moderation rulebook enforces stricter requirements on very large online platforms, exceeding 45 million EU-based monthly active users.