Nigerian Government Fines WhatsApp $220 Million For Alleged Data Abuse
Nigeria’s consumer protection agency, FCCPC, has imposed a $220 million fine on Meta Platforms Inc., owners of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, for allegedly abusing the data of their Nigerian users.
Details
According to the FCCPC, the agency arrived at its conclusion to impose its fine after an investigation of Meta’s operations between May 2021 and December 2023.
The agency stated that Meta cooperated during the investigation.
Digging Deeper
In its findings, the FCCPC concluded that Meta had engaged in abusive and invasive practices against data subjects/consumers in Nigeria.
The agency also stated that Meta forced unscrupulous, exploitative, and non-compliant privacy policies that appropriated consumer personal information without the option or opportunity to self-determine or otherwise withhold or provide consent to the gathering, use, and/or sharing of such personal data.
Meta’s Response
A Meta spokesperson who spoke to TechCabal stated that they disagreed with the judgment and the fine and planned to appeal.
Meta also disputed the FCCPC’s central claim.
What They’re Saying
“In 2021, we went to users globally to explain how talking to businesses, among other things would work, and while there was a lot of confusion then, it’s actually proven quite popular. We disagree with the decision today as well as the fine, and we are appealing the decision,” WhatsApp spokesperson.
