The National Commission of Markets and Competition (CNMC) in Spain has initiated a formal investigation into Ibai Llanos, a well-known content creator, for allegedly committing a serious infringement of the General Law of Audiovisual Communication. This investigation was decided by the council on February 19, specifying that the potential sanctions for such infractions can range from 30,000 to 750,000 euros, depending on the revenue accrued by the infringer. This case highlights the increasing scrutiny and regulation of digital content creators in Spain, particularly those with significant followings.

The central issue revolves around Llanos's failure to comply with Article 94 of the law, which sets forth obligations for influential users in managing commercial communications and their registration in the state registry of providers of audiovisual communication services. This particular article is critical as it aims to provide a framework to ensure transparency and accountability in the burgeoning realm of digital media, where influencers play a pivotal role. The CNMC is set to assess this case thoroughly before reaching a resolution, which could take up to 12 months.

If found guilty of the infringement, Llanos could face substantial penalties that could significantly impact his business operations and public persona. This situation underscores an emerging trend in the regulation of social media influencers and content creators, emphasizing the need for compliance with established legal standards in content creation. As digital platforms continue to grow in influence and reach, such regulatory actions may set precedents for similar cases in the future, shaping the landscape for content creators and their responsibilities in Spain and beyond.