Data privacy concerns in Norway have put US-based big tech firm Meta in a tight spot. Norway's data protection agency has threatened to ban Facebook and Instagram owner Meta from using the personal information of users for targeted advertising with a $100,000 daily fine if the company continues its activities.
The Norwegian watchdog, Datatilsynet, has expressed discontent that Meta uses information such as the location of users, the content they like and their posts for marketing purposes.
"The Norwegian Data Protection Authority considers that the practice of Meta is illegal and is therefore imposing a temporary ban of behavioral advertising on Facebook and Instagram," it said in a statement.
The ban will begin on August 4 and last three months to give Meta time to take corrective measures. The company will be fined one million kroner ($100,000) per day if it fails to comply.
Meta spokesman Matthew Pollard was quoted by the Norwegian public radio channel NRK as saying that the company will review the demands and that the announcement will not have an immediate effect on its activities.
