The Norwegian data protection authority, "Datatilsynet," announced on Monday that it will fine Meta Platforms, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, one million kroner (approximately $100,000) daily for privacy violations unless corrective actions are taken. This step could have broader European implications.
It clarified that it will impose the fine every day from August 4 until November 3 unless Meta takes action. The agency stated that Meta cannot collect user data, such as location information, and use it for targeted advertising in a business model common among major tech companies.
Tobias Godin, head of the international department at Datatilsynet, told Reuters, “It is clear that this is illegal to the extent that we must intervene now and immediately; we cannot wait any longer.” Meta indicated that it will review Datatilsynet's decision, noting that there would be no immediate impact on its services.
Datatilsynet referred its action to the European Data Protection Board, and if the board approves, the fine could become permanent and the decision extended across Europe. Norway is not a member of the European Union but is part of the European single market.
