Nigeria Imposes $220 Million Fine on Meta
The Nigerian government has imposed a fine of $220 million on the American tech giant Meta, which owns Facebook and WhatsApp. The fine is for multiple and repeated violations of data protection and consumer rights. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) accused Meta of violating Nigerian laws on data protection on both platforms.
Investigation Findings
The investigation conducted between May 2021 and December 2023 in collaboration with the Nigerian Data Protection Commission revealed invasive data practices by Meta in Nigeria. Meta was accused of discriminatory practices, abuse of dominance, unauthorized use of Nigerians’ personal data, and depriving users of their rights to control how their data is used.
Legal Requirements and Future Conduct
In addition to the hefty fine, Meta is required to comply with Nigerian laws, cease exploitation of Nigerian consumers, end market abuses, and refrain from engaging in similar conduct in the future. Despite the investigation lasting thirty-eight months, Meta has not yet responded to the allegations.
Internet Usage in Nigeria
With nearly three-quarters of Nigeria’s 200 million inhabitants being under 24 years old and heavy users of social media, Meta’s platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram are widely popular in the country. The country had approximately 164.3 million internet subscriptions by March, with WhatsApp alone boasting over 51 million users in Nigeria.
EU Allegations Against Meta
In another legal battle, the European Union accused Meta of non-compliance with data privacy regulations, potentially leading to significant financial penalties. Meta was found to have breached EU regulations on digital services by offering users of Facebook and Instagram a choice between a paid subscription to avoid targeted advertising or a free service in exchange for consenting to provide personal data.
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