In the registration process to Instagram, users were not given clear information about the collection and use of their data for commercial purposes. In addition, when Facebook and Instagram accounts were suspended, no useful communication was provided for possible complaints.  


The Italian Competition Authority has fined Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd. and its parent company Meta Platforms Inc. EUR 3.5 million for two unfair commercial practices regarding the creation and management of Facebook and Instagram social network accounts.


The Authority found that Meta failed, in breach of Articles 20, 21 and 22 of the Consumer Code, to immediately inform users registered to Instagram via the web of the use of their personal data for commercial purposes.


In addition, the Authority ascertained that Meta did not accurately manage the suspension of Facebook and Instagram users’ accounts, in breach of Article 20 of the Consumer Code. In particular, Meta did not indicate how it decided to suspend Facebook accounts (whether as a result of an automated or 'human' review) and did not provide Facebook and Instagram users with information on the possibility of contesting the suspension of their accounts (they could turn to an out-of-court dispute resolution body or a judge). Finally, it set a short deadline (30 days) for consumers to challenge the suspension.


These two practices were ceased by Meta in the course of the proceedings.


Rome, 5 June 2024

Italian Competition Authority fines Meta for unfair practices on Facebook and Instagram accounts

The Italian Competition Authority imposed a EUR 3.5 million fine on Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd. and Meta Platforms Inc. for unfair commercial practices related to Facebook and Instagram accounts.

 Meta failed to inform Instagram users clearly about the collection and use of their data for commercial purposes during the registration process. Additionally, when suspending accounts on Facebook and Instagram, Meta did not provide adequate information for users to file complaints.

 The Authority found Meta in violation of Consumer Code articles by not promptly disclosing the use of personal data for commercial purposes to Instagram users. It also determined that Meta mishandled the suspension of accounts by not explaining the reasons for suspension and not offering a clear process for users to contest the suspension within a reasonable timeframe.

 Meta ceased these practices during the investigation, but the Authority still imposed the fine for the past violations.



Italian Competition Authority fines Meta for unfair practices on Facebook and Instagram accounts

The Italian Competition Authority has fined Meta Platforms EUR 3.5 million for failing to inform users about data use and account suspension on Facebook and Instagram.