Europe v Facebook: Privacy Activists Escalate Legal Battle Against Irish Data Protection Authority
Campaign Group Prepares Court Challenge Over Facebook Privacy Concerns
As Facebook moves to eliminate user voting on privacy policies, European privacy activists are ramping up their long-standing campaign against the social media giant. The Europe v Facebook group is preparing to challenge the Irish Data Protection Authority’s (DPA) findings regarding their 22 privacy complaints against Facebook in court.
Key Developments:
- Legal Action Prepared: Group plans to contest DPA decisions favoring Facebook
- Crowdfunding Launched: €100,000-€300,000 target set for legal costs
- 22 Unresolved Complaints: Activists demand binding decisions on all issues
The Growing Conflict Over Facebook’s Data Practices
The activist group has expressed dissatisfaction with the Irish DPA’s September 2012 report, which concluded Facebook had implemented most recommended changes - including disabling facial recognition in Europe. However, Europe v Facebook maintains the audit lacked rigor.
“Facebook’s statements were simply adopted, even though many can be disproven with screenshots,” said Max Schrems, the group’s spokesman. “The authority’s interpretation often contradicts EU-wide legal consensus.”
Major Points of Contention:
- Data Access: Over 40,000 users reportedly awaiting requested data (legally overdue by 13x the 40-day limit)
- Facial Recognition: Questions remain about why this was only disabled for EU users
- Transparency Concerns: Activists claim they’ve been denied access to Facebook’s counterarguments
Crowdfunding the Privacy Battle
The group has established a crowdfunding platform to finance what promises to be a costly legal confrontation. This move comes as they prepare to:
- Request all relevant case files from the DPA
- Push for formal, binding decisions on all complaints
- Potentially take the matter to court if unsatisfied with DPA rulings
Facebook’s Response
Facebook maintains its compliance with European data protection standards, stating:
“The latest DPC report demonstrates how Facebook adheres to European data protection law and achieves best practice. We have some vocal critics who will never be happy whatever we do.”
What’s Next in the Privacy Showdown
The coming months will reveal whether:
- The crowdfunding campaign succeeds in raising necessary funds
- The Irish DPA provides the requested documentation
- Legal proceedings will commence against Facebook’s data practices
This developing story represents a critical test case for European data protection enforcement against major tech platforms.
[Status of complaints as documented in Europe v Facebook’s counter report:]
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