Social networking sites are online platforms that allow users to create profiles, share content, network and interact with others virtually. Portals such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and many others are popular all over the world and are an essential part of many people's online lives. However, due to the operating characteristics of these platforms, there are some issues related to data usage, personalized advertising and behavioral targeting.
Personalized advertising
While personalized advertising can be beneficial for advertisers and users, it also raises privacy concerns. There is a risk that users may feel uncomfortable when ads accurately reflect their personal behavior and preferences. In addition, there is a risk of third parties misusing this data or using it for manipulation or disinformation.
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In response to concerns about the use of personal information, many countries have introduced regulations and laws. They are about privacy protection, such as the GDPR in the European Union or other similar laws in other parts of the world. These laws are designed to give users more control over their data and force platforms to adhere to stricter privacy standards.
As we read on the website of the Norwegian Data Protection Authority, it imposed a mandatory fine on Meta, which will come into force on August 14. The background is that Meta does not comply with the Norwegian data protection authority's ban on behavioral marketing on Facebook and Instagram. However, Meta has applied to the district court in Oslo for an interim injunction against the ban.
On July 14, the Norwegian Data Protection Authority ruled that Meta behavioral marketing on Facebook and Instagram is illegal because it involves very intrusive user monitoring. Behavioral marketing in Norway must therefore be put on hold until Meta finds a legal way to conduct such marketing.
One million NOK per day compulsory fine
Meta says the company will look at how it can legally comply in the future. However, we see that it still has not stopped the illegal activities. Therefore, we believe that the ban was not respected. Norwegian Data Protection Authority therefore decided on August 7 to impose mandatory fines of NOK one million per day. The mandatory penalty goes into effect on August 14.
Meta is asking to stop the implementation
However, Meta has filed a motion with the Oslo District Court asking the court to suspend the ban on behavioral marketing on Facebook and Instagram from July 14.
– The Norwegian Data Protection Authority considers that the conditions for an interim injunction have not been met. Meta can and should follow our decision. The privacy rights of Norwegian Facebook and Instagram users will be violated every day that Meta does not comply, says head of the international section, Tobias Judin.
Technologies and regulations evolve
In summary, social networking sites use user data for personalized advertising and behavioral targeting. This approach has both benefits and challenges in protecting privacy and controlling personal data. As technology and regulation evolve, you can expect this topic to continue to evolve and be a source of societal debate and discussion.
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Source: Norwegian Data Protection Authority
