On Tuesday, Norway’s governmental regulatory authority, Datatilsynet, revealed that Meta Platforms is seeking to contest a fine imposed on it due to user privacy rights violation. Datatilsynet subsequently advised against the use of Meta products because of potential security and confidentiality issues. They argue that Facebook, a Meta subsidiary, doesn’t adhere to the parameters defined by the General Data Protection Regulation, a significant piece of European privacy law.
Datatilsynet has also forbidden the use of targeted advertising, or behavioural advertising, within Norway. They allege that both Facebook and Instagram, well-known for their use of such advertising methods, are guilty of surveilling citizens within Norwegian borders.
This isn’t the first time Meta has faced such accusations. A similar situation arose when the Irish regulator complained about Meta’s practices pertaining to behavioural advertising. Claims were brought forth that the company had made algorithmic changes. However, a subsequent review by European courts determined that these changes still failed to comply with European privacy standards.
According to Norwegian legal regulations, Meta is allegedly liable to pay a daily sum of 1 million kroner for violating data privacy regulations. This ruling will be in effect from August 14, 2023 to November 3, 2023, as specified by Norway’s regulatory authority. It’s worth noting that Meta Platforms has not yet made an official statement.
The Norwegian data regulator also suggests that their legal decision could potentially impact jurisdictions across Europe. However, at present, it has not indicated any intentions of imposing all-encompassing global sanctions.