Data and privacy rules are trickier to navigate in the digital era of free speech, and Meta is facing a similar problem. The technology conglomerate is on the paying end of a hefty fine of $100k over user privacy allegations. According to Norway’s data protection authority, Meta would have to pay the penalty unless it complies with its laws.
Datatilsynet, a Norwegian regulator, says that behavioral advertising, a common marketing strategy, collects user data and information, such as their patterns and locations, without their consent, making it illegal. Since Meta uses data scraping models, Datatilsynet imposed a “temporary ban” on Instagram and Facebook.
The penalty does not ban Meta’s platforms in Norway but aims to ensure that Norwegian people can access these services safely and securely while maintaining their data ownership and privacy.
The penalty does not stop Meta’s platforms in Norway but aims to ensure that Norwegian people can access these services safely and securely while maintaining their data ownership and privacy. The ban will occur from August 4, with Meta accruing a fine of up to USD 100,000 daily. It will go on for three months, or “until Meta can show that it complies with the law,” said Datatilsynet.
In response, Meta said it would go over Datatilsynet’s decisions. “We continue to constructively engage with the Irish (Data Protection Commission), our lead regulator in the EU, regarding our compliance with its decision,” the Facebook and Instagram owner said.
Datatilsynet also pointed out Irish DPC’s decision that ordered Meta to comply with its behavioral advertising tactics with European law by April. The regulator also noted that a recent judgment from the EU’s top court mentioned that Meta’s practices still defied the EU’s regulations.
Tobias Judin, the Norwegian Data Protection Authority’s international department head, said, “Considering the recent legal developments and Meta’s inaction, we consider it urgent to intervene. If not, we fear that Meta would continue delaying compliance.”
Datatilsynet added that imposing a behavioral advertising ban outside Norway’s boundaries is also possible, so it may take the issue to the European Data Protection Board if Meta does not agree to the regulation demands. Taking the matter to the European Data Protection Board could extend the ban beyond three months, leading to stricter implications.
Meta has been in hot water regarding data and privacy laws for a while. In May, the EU imposed a fine of $1.3 billion on the company, ordering it to stop sharing users’ data across the Atlantic by October.
