Spain’s data protection watchdog, AEPD, has halted the deployment of two Meta products, “Election Day Information” (EDI) and “Voter Information Unit” (VIU), intended for use on Instagram and Facebook during the upcoming European election. AEPD asserts that these tools could potentially breach GDPR regulations, particularly concerning data processing and user privacy. Meta, while maintaining its tools’ compliance with GDPR and respect for user privacy, has cooperated with AEPD’s directive despite disagreeing with its assessment.
The controversy revolves around Meta’s intention to use these tools to notify eligible Instagram and Facebook users across the EU about the election. AEPD contends that Meta’s data processing methods, including the use of user profiles and IP addresses to target eligible voters, are excessive and unnecessary, potentially excluding certain groups of EU citizens and individuals residing abroad. The watchdog also criticizes Meta’s data retention practices, citing concerns about the storage of user data beyond the election period without adequate justification.
AEPD’s decision highlights the ongoing tension between tech giants and data protection authorities regarding the use of personal data for political purposes. While Meta asserts its commitment to privacy and GDPR compliance, AEPD’s intervention underscores the need for vigilant oversight to safeguard user rights and ensure transparency in data processing practices, particularly during sensitive events like elections. The outcome of this dispute may influence the future development and deployment of similar tools by tech companies operating within the EU, shaping the landscape of digital campaigning and voter engagement strategies.
