Meta in court: Will the subscription requirement now be overturned?
For months, Facebook and Instagram users have faced a choice: reveal their numbers or their data. But this “take it or leave it” approach could soon be history. The Federation of German Consumer Organizations (vzbv) is now taking legal action against Meta to stop the controversial practice.
Here’s what’s behind the lawsuit and what its chances are.
What exactly is this about?
Since November 2023, Meta has been presenting its users in the EU with a tough choice:
- Ad-free for a fee: Subscribe to a monthly plan (approx. €10 to €13).
- Free in exchange for data: Use the service for free, but agree to the comprehensive use of your data for personalized advertising.
The German Federation of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) has filed a lawsuit against this “pay-or-consent” model with the Higher Regional Court of Cologne.
The consumer advocates’ accusations
Consumer advocates consider the pressure Meta puts on its users to be illegal. The main points of criticism:
- Sham voluntariness: According to the GDPR, consent must be given voluntarily. Anyone who has to use the app (for social or professional reasons) and cannot or does not want to pay is forced to share their data, according to the German Federation of Consumer Organizations (vzbv).
- Misleading: For years, Facebook advertised its service as “free and always will be.” The fact that users now effectively have to pay with their data as currency to gain access contradicts this promise.
- Lack of Transparency: It remains unclear exactly how much data is collected when users agree to tracking.
The Core of the Problem: According to the plaintiffs, privacy should not be a luxury item that has to be bought. The right to data protection should not depend on one’s financial means.
What is a remedial action?
This is not a normal lawsuit, but the most powerful tool in German consumer protection. Should the vzbv win, the court can directly order Meta to cease the practice or pay compensation. Users would then no longer have to sue individually to assert their rights.
The goal is clear: The “subscription-or-data” model should be banned in its current form.
Conclusion: A landmark ruling
The outcome of this case will be groundbreaking for the entire internet in Europe. If the court overturns the model, many online platforms would have to change their strategies. However, patience is required until a final ruling is reached.
Beliebte Beiträge
Career booster 2026: These Microsoft Office skills will take you further!
A new year, new career opportunities! But which Office skills will really be in demand in 2026? "Skilled use" is no longer enough. We'll show you today's must-haves – like advanced Excel, using AI in the office, and relevant certifications for your resume.
Microsoft Power Platform: The low-code revolution for every business
The Power Platform democratizes IT! Business departments can analyze data (Power BI), build apps (Power Apps), automate processes (Power Automate), and create chatbots (Copilot Studio) without any programming knowledge. A deep dive into the low-code future of your company.
The business of your inbox: Who buys and sells email addresses, and what they cost.
Your email address is a valuable commodity. Hackers sell it on the dark web, and marketers pay for verified contacts. This article examines the mechanisms of this trade, specifies concrete prices per record, and provides tips on how to prevent your data from becoming a commodity.
AI in Hollywood: The silent revolution of the dream factory
AI in Hollywood is more than just de-aging and VFX. It analyzes scripts, optimizes marketing, and was central to the WGA and SAG AFTRA strikes. Learn how AI is revolutionizing the dream factory – balancing efficiency, new creativity, and concerns about jobs.
The heart of AI regulation: What is the EU’s new “AI office”?
The new EU AI Office (European AI Office) is the central authority for enforcing and monitoring the AI Act. It regulates high-risk AI and general-purpose AI models (GPAI), coordinates EU member states, and promotes trustworthy AI innovation in Europe.
More than just a password: Why 2-factor authentication is mandatory today
Why is two-factor authentication (2FA) mandatory today? Because passwords are constantly being stolen through data leaks and phishing. 2FA is the second, crucial barrier (e.g., via an app) that stops attackers – even if they know your password. Protect yourself now!
Offers 2024: Word & Excel Templates
