The European Data Protection Board (EDPB), a regulatory body in the EU, has revealed its stance on how large online platforms handle user data for targeted advertising. If users do not want their data to be used, they have to choose between consenting or paying a monthly service fee. This approach, termed as “Consent or Pay,” is employed by major platforms like Meta (Facebook and Instagram), offering a package priced at 9.99 euros per month in exchange for ad-free browsing.
The EDPB believes that this method does not align with the true spirit of user consent outlined in the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Users are currently faced with either consenting to full data usage or opting out entirely and paying a fee. The EDPB suggests that platforms should offer alternative options that do not involve payment but still allow users to control their personal data in a similar manner.
The recommendation from the EDPB is to prevent platforms from limiting options to just two methods and instead offer choices such as non-targeted advertising based on user data privacy or similar alternatives. By doing so, platforms can better adhere to the guidelines set forth by the GDPR. It is important to note that the EDPB’s proposal is not legally binding at this time.
Source: EDPB via TechCrunch
TLDR: The European Data Protection Board criticizes large online platforms for giving users only two options – consent to data usage or pay a fee – and suggests offering alternative choices to better align with GDPR guidelines.
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