“NIGERIA’S TRIBUNAL SLAMS $220m FINE ON META FOR DATA PROTECTION VIOLATIONS”
GREATRIBUNTVNEWS–A Nigerian tribunal has upheld a $220 million fine against Meta Platforms Incorporated and WhatsApp for violating the country’s data protection laws. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission imposed the fine after investigating Meta’s handling of Nigerian users’ data.
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The tribunal’s ruling also requires Meta to:
– Reinstate User Control: Immediately give Nigerian users the ability to control how their data is shared
– Compliance Letter: Submit a compliance letter by July 1, 2025, confirming implementation of necessary changes
– Update Application: Ensure the app allows users to exercise their data control rights
– Suspension of Data Sharing: Stop sharing user data with third parties without explicit consent
– Reimbursement: Pay $35,000 to cover investigation costs
Meta was found guilty of
– Denying Users’ Right to Self-Determination: Failing to adequately inform users about data sharing and processing
– Unauthorized Data Transfer: Sharing user data with third parties without consent
– Discrimination and Disparate Treatment: Engaging in exploitative practices that infringed on users’ privacy rights
– Abuse of Dominance: Violating Nigeria’s consumer protection regulations
The tribunal dismissed Meta’s claims of procedural unfairness, stating that the company was given ample opportunity to defend itself. The ruling highlights Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing data protection laws and consumer rights
