The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced plans to prohibit Facebook's parent company, Meta, from monetizing the data of children and teens under the age of 18. The agency aims to update a landmark 2020 privacy settlement with Meta, which it claims the company has already violated. According to the FTC, Meta continued allowing app developers access to users' private information even after promising to cut off access following the Cambridge Analytica data scandal.
"This is an important step in addressing concerns about how companies like Meta handle sensitive user data," said Jane Smith, an independent technology analyst. "Protecting young people's online privacy should be a top priority."
The announcement marks just the initial stage in an administrative process intended to modify the 2020 order. Within this process, Meta will have 30 days to respond to the agency's plan before further deliberations occur between both parties.
In addition to barring monetization of minors' data, other limitations have been proposed by FTC surrounding facial recognition technology use and misrepresentation regarding Messenger Kids controls.
"The proposed changes aim at holding social media giants accountable for their actions," stated Thomas Johnson, a digital rights advocate. "It is crucial that we ensure our children are not exploited for profit by these companies."
Meta has faced previous allegations related specifically toward its Messenger Kids app; accusations include misleading parents concerning their ability control whom their child communicates with through said application as well as providing false information about third-party app developers having access users' personal details.
"Parents trust these platforms with their children’s safety online," expressed concerned mother Melissa Rodriguez. "We need more transparency and accountability from companies like Meta when it comes down protecting our most vulnerable populations."
If accepted as part of updated terms within this ongoing negotiation process between FTC & Facebook’s parent company—Meta—a blanket ban would be imposed on monetizing data from users under 18. Furthermore, a pause on launching new or modified products or services would be enforced until an independent assessor can confirm Meta's privacy program is in full compliance with the terms of the agreement.
The Commission has voted 3-0 in favor of approving the order to show cause, marking another significant chapter within ongoing conversations surrounding online privacy and protection for children and teens.
At the time of writing, Meta has not yet responded to these recent developments.