Meta alters data use policy after CMA approval
The new proposal ensures that all advertisers’ data will not be used to enhance the e-commerce platform, eliminating the need for opting in or out.
Britain’s competition watchdog has approved Meta’s new approach to handling advertisers’ data on its platform. Previously under scrutiny for potentially unfair practices, the tech giant had initially allowed advertisers to opt out of using their data to enhance Facebook Marketplace. However, Meta has now gone further, ensuring that none of the data from advertisers on Facebook Marketplace will be used to improve the e-commerce platform, removing the need to opt in or out.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which began investigating Meta in 2021, has confirmed that these changes surpass the original commitments and do not disadvantage advertisers. The inquiry initially focused on whether Meta had an unfair edge in sectors like online classified ads and dating due to its data practices.
The decision follows a broader trend of tech companies, like Amazon, making adjustments to ensure fair competition. Last year, Amazon agreed not to use marketplace data from competing sellers to create a level playing field for third-party vendors.
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