In a recent statement, the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) highlighted concerns that Meta Platforms' updated ad-free subscription service may still violate EU consumer and privacy laws, alongside antitrust regulations. BEUC urged regulators to address these issues with the U.S. tech giant, known for Facebook and Instagram.
Meta introduced changes in 2023, providing users with reduced personalized ads and a 40% reduction in fees. However, BEUC, which flagged the modifications as purely superficial, criticized Meta for not giving users a fair choice and for continuing to push them towards behavioral ads.
BEUC's Director General, Agustin Reyna, emphasized the importance of swift investigations by consumer protection authorities and the European Commission into Meta's recent policy. He called for immediate action to safeguard consumers if necessary.
Meta's response contradicted BEUC's assertions, stating that the adjustments made in November align with EU regulatory requirements and surpass legal obligations. BEUC accused Meta of deceptive practices, using ambiguous terms to steer users towards its favored option without clear consent.
BEUC also claimed that Meta failed to limit the collection of user data and penalized users who declined to permit the use of their personal information. Notably, BEUC had previously accused Meta of violating the Digital Markets Act by offering a paid ad-free service that restricted user choices.