Meta’s Response to FTC’s Amendment Efforts
Meta Platforms, formerly known as Facebook, is currently challenging the US Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) attempts to modify a privacy settlement from 2020.
Voluntary Disclosure of Technical Glitches
Meta has stated that it proactively informed the agency about two technical issues related to its Messenger Kids app, emphasizing its commitment to transparency.
Investment in Privacy Programs
According to Meta’s recent filing, the company revealed these vulnerabilities in July 2019. Additionally, Meta highlighted its substantial investment of $5.5 billion in enhancing its privacy program and related initiatives.
FTC’s Response
The FTC has not yet responded to inquiries from Reuters regarding the ongoing situation.
Focus of Disagreement
The primary disagreement centers around the 2020 privacy agreement with Facebook, which aimed to prevent the exploitation of minors’ data and impose stricter regulations on facial recognition technology.
Accusations Against Meta
The FTC intends to revise the existing settlement, alleging that Meta provided misleading information to parents about child protection measures.
Court Ruling and Legal Challenges
In a recent ruling, a US appeals court decided that Meta cannot block the FTC from reopening an investigation into Facebook’s privacy practices, despite Meta’s prior arguments and financial penalties. Meta has consistently refuted claims of deceiving parents about privacy risks and even filed a lawsuit against the FTC, questioning the agency’s dual role in investigations and adjudication.
