You can opt out of being tracked online by Facebook and Instagram with new form

Posted on : March 30, 2023
You can opt out of being tracked online by Facebook and Instagram with new form

Facebook and Instagram users across Europe—including the UK—will soon be given the chance to 'opt out' of 'user tracking'.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Meta is planning to let users avoid tracking, which is used to serve up highly targeted ads based on detailed user data.

Users will have to fill in a form online objecting to Meta's tracking system, and once the tech giant has assessed the claim, users could get the chance to opt out entirely.

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Both Facebook and Instagram currently track user activity across both social platforms and use this data for advertising.

That's why being able to opt out of this tracking represents a huge leap forward in terms of privacy.

According to the WSJ, which spoke to some Meta insiders: "Users who wish to opt out will have to submit an online form objecting to Meta’s use of their in-app activity for ads, and the company will then evaluate any user’s objection before implementing the change, the people said.

"That could limit the effect of the change to Meta’s advertising business, and fall short of satisfying at least some regulators and privacy activists."

It's unclear when users will be able to submit the form in question.

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Meta could be introducing the change due to the risk of hefty fines by the EU.

In January, the Irish data protection authorities fined Meta €390million for forcing users to agree to 'behavioural ads', i.e. ads which are given to users based on their usage of Facebook and Instagram.

This data could include anything from the videos you watch on Reels to the comments you post.

Both Facebook and Instagram do offer users some control over their privacy and how their data is used, so make sure you check your privacy settings on these platforms.

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