Opinion: EU disapproves of Meta’s ‘privacy for cash’ business model

The European Union is pushing back against the idea that you have to sacrifice your data or your money to big tech companies like Meta. According to the European Data Protection Board (EDPB), models that force people to choose between giving their data for targeted ads or paying for privacy may not meet the requirements for valid consent.

Paid alternatives for data collection should not be the default option on major online platforms, the EDPB argues. Platforms should consider offering a free option that doesn’t involve as much data processing. Anu Talus, Chair of the EDPB, emphasizes that individuals should understand the value and consequences of their choices when it comes to data protection.

Currently, EU users have to pay €10 ($11) per month for an ad-free subscription or consent to sharing their data. The EU is looking into whether this system complies with the Digital Markets Act, which recently came into effect.