Meta Paid Privacy: In a recent development, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, faces criticism from European consumer groups over its newly introduced paid ad-free subscription service. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and 18 of its members filed a joint complaint with consumer protection authorities, alleging that Meta’s subscription service violates EU consumer laws.
The complaint comes on the heels of another grievance filed by advocacy group NOYB with the Austrian privacy watchdog, contending that Meta’s subscription model essentially charges users for ensuring privacy. Meta introduced the paid no-ads subscription service in Europe, emphasizing compliance with EU regulations that mandate companies to provide users with a choice regarding the collection and use of their data for targeted advertising.
BEUC outlined several concerns in its complaint, accusing Meta of breaching EU consumer law through unfair, deceptive, and aggressive practices. The organization pointed out tactics like partially blocking users from accessing services to pressure quick decisions and providing misleading and incomplete information during the subscription process. BEUC expressed skepticism that even with the new service, users’ data might still be collected and utilized for other purposes. Additionally, the consumer group raised objections to the perceived high subscription fees for ad-free services, potentially discouraging users.
Also Read: Meta Privacy Predicament: Facing Legal Headwinds Over Privacy Fee
Ursula Pachl, Deputy Director General of BEUC, remarked on the situation, stating that Meta’s actions could lead consumers to consent to profiling and tracking due to the elevated subscription costs. Pachl emphasized that individuals should not be required to pay for safeguarding their privacy. The ad-free service comes with a monthly cost of 9.99 euros for web users and 12.99 euros for iOS and Android users. Meta defended these prices, stating they align with premium services from Google’s YouTube, Spotify, and Netflix.
The dispute underscores the ongoing challenges tech companies face in navigating privacy concerns and regulatory compliance, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of digital services. As the complaints make their way through consumer protection authorities, Meta finds itself at the center of a debate regarding the balance between user privacy, subscription costs, and compliance with European consumer laws.
Our Reader’s Queries
How much is Meta privacy fee?
In accordance with EU regulations, users must be provided with the option to choose whether their data can be collected and utilized for targeted advertisements. As a result, the company has introduced an ad-free service that costs 9.99 euros ($10.90) per month for web users and 12.99 euros for iOS and Android users. This service ensures that users have control over their personal information and can enjoy an uninterrupted browsing experience.
Is Meta selling my data?
Although we do not trade your information, third-party businesses and organizations may gather your activity from their apps and websites and forward it to us. You have the option to review the activity that we have linked to your account and sever any connections that you desire.
What is the privacy policy of meta payments?
At Meta Payments, we value your privacy and take it seriously. Rest assured that any Personal Information you provide us with will only be used to facilitate your payments on Facebook. We do not share your information with any third-party for marketing purposes unless you have given us explicit consent to do so. Your trust is important to us, and we strive to maintain it by keeping your information safe and secure.
What is the $10 Meta charge?
To set up a fresh ad account, you must first spend a minimum of $10 USD on impressions before you can opt for any other payment method. This is a mandatory requirement to maintain the authenticity of new ad accounts.