Report Highlights Inadequate Privacy Protections in Social Media, Streaming Services

A recent report reveals that major social media and video streaming companies engage in extensive surveillance of users, particularly children and teens, while failing to implement adequate privacy safeguards, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

The findings indicate that these companies collect vast amounts of personal data to monetize it, often retaining this information indefinitely, including data sourced from brokers and non-users.

The report criticizes the companies for their lax data handling practices, stating that many do not fully delete user data upon request. FTC Chair Lina Khan emphasized the dangers of these surveillance practices, which threaten individuals’ privacy and freedoms, potentially leading to issues like identity theft and stalking.

The investigation, prompted by orders issued in December 2020, involved nine companies, including Meta Platforms, YouTube, and TikTok. It uncovered that users had little control over how their data was utilized by automated systems, with inconsistent monitoring practices across platforms.

Additionally, the report highlights that the business models of these companies incentivize mass data collection for targeted advertising, often at the expense of user privacy. The FTC specifically noted the troubling lack of protections for young users, linking social media to adverse mental health effects.