Introduction
Meta has unveiled an improved version whereby Facebook’s users, as well as those of Instagram – their most sought-after social media platforms, can pay around ten euro per month in order to get rid of advertisement. It was a reaction following a particular order of the EU for them to come up with substitutes to making payments through a person’s private life. Yet, it is clear that many are not satisfied with Meta’s reaction to the EU demands.
Privacy Activists’ Opposition
Over last week, NOYB filed a suit in an Austrian court demanding action by all European data protection agencies. Essentially, Metadata, under leadership of Mark Zuckerberg, are making people buyback their own personal privacy and thereby are violating the underlying basis of European law which is user consent.
Concerns and Cost Implications
An activist group warns that Meta’s solution could spread. At costs of approximately €250 per year on Facebook and Instagram alone, adding a conservative assumption of 35 commonly installed applications by the end of 2019. Meta’s price is considered inappropriate. Besides, this group also refers to some marketing literature which points out that not more than 3% is ready to track its usage, whereas above 99% actually do not use its true choice when it comes to an offered choice between paying and having something for free.
Legal Landscape and Meta’s Approach
However, whether or not NOYB’s case is strong enough has yet to be tested since the Irish court has jurisdiction over Meta’s company headquarters which are situated in Europe. However, it is important to point out that Meta is not ahead of the pack on this issue. Similarly, many platforms, big and small, particularly those related to information, give their subscribers similar options like tracking or subscription.