It looks like Facebook and Instagram will have to wait a lot longer to run targeted ads in European countries. Earlier, the two social media platforms had received a temporary Norwegian Data Protection Authority (DPA) ban, but it looks like Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) is to ban the processing of personal data for targeted ads, and in this case, the effects of the ban will be felt across the entirety of Europe.
This ban will prevent Facebook and Instagra, from using user data to create tailored ads, which is also known as ‘behavioural advertising’. All of this was triggered when the two networks were found to be in conflict with GDPR regulations related to ethical ad practices. Earlier in May, Meta was it with a hefty €1.2 billion fine, and they were also informed the steps they had to take in order to be in the right again.
Meta is also working on an ad-free tier, much like X, and this should make things a bit easier for the social media giant, atleast in terms of legal matters. The ad-free tiers will cost around €9.99 and €12.99 per month respectively, and the company has confirmed that they preparing their defence in response to the various lawsuits they are embroiled in. Meta has not given any more details regarding the same, but we hope to see them come out unscathed from this affair.
