Meta’s “privacy fee” draws scrutiny from digital rights advocates in the EU،
Meta recently introduced an ad-free paid subscription service for users in the European Union, in compliance with EU regulations that grant users the choice to allow data collection for targeted advertising purposes. Priced at €9.99 ($10.90) per month for web users and €12.99 ($14.20) for iOS and Android users, the subscription was intended to provide an alternative to funded services through advertising while ensuring compliance with confidentiality standards. However, this new subscription service faces a challenge. Reuters reports that the digital rights group NOYB (None Of Your Business) filed a complaint with an Austrian regulator, claiming that the subscription essentially charges users a fee for privacy protection. NOYB, founded by privacy activist Max Schrems, believes that Meta’s approach contradicts the essence of user consent, as required by EU law. Felix Mikolasch, data protection lawyer at NOYB, expressed the group’s disagreement with Meta’s stance on consent, saying: “EU law requires that consent be the user’s actual free will. Contrary to this law, Meta charges a “privacy fee” of up to 250 euros per year if anyone dares to exercise their fundamental right to data protection.“The complaint, filed with the Austrian data protection authority, challenges not only the concept of the fee but also its substantial amount.
NOYB has criticized the acceptability of the fee, citing industry figures that suggest only 3 percent of people want tracking, while more than 99 percent don’t opt for it.confidentiality feesThe group warned of potential repercussions, saying: “If Meta succeeds, competitors will soon follow in its footsteps,” and adding that “Given that the average phone has 35 apps installed, keeping your phone private could soon cost around €8,815 ($9,657) per year..”
Meta defended its subscription model, emphasizing that it aligns with European regulatory requirements while providing users with choice. A spokesperson noted that the pricing structure is consistent with similar subscription offerings in Europe, emphasizing the balance between regulatory compliance and user preferences.
NOYB, known for filing numerous privacy violation complaints against major tech companies including Google and Meta, has urged Austria’s privacy authority to accelerate action against Meta and impose fines. The complaint is expected to be referred to the Irish data protection watchdog, as Meta’s European headquarters is based in Ireland.
