In a move to address ongoing concerns over data privacy and user security, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced the rollout of new privacy features aimed at giving users more control over their personal information.
The updates, which will be implemented across Meta’s platforms, include more granular privacy settings and expanded options for users to manage who can view their posts and stories. These changes come in response to the growing scrutiny Meta has faced from regulators, privacy advocates, and users regarding its data practices.
“We are committed to providing our users with greater transparency and control over their personal data,” said Meta’s Chief Privacy Officer, Michel Protti. “These new privacy features are designed to empower individuals and build trust in our platforms.”
One of the key changes is the introduction of a new setting that allows users to set a default audience for their posts on Facebook. This means that the selected audience will automatically apply to new posts shared on the user’s timeline, unless they choose a different audience for a specific post. Previously, the default audience matched the most recent selection, which could lead to unintended sharing.
Additionally, Meta has consolidated the Ad Topics and Interest Categories controls into a single setting accessible on both Facebook and Instagram. This consolidated control enables users to manage a broader range of ad topics that reflect the interest targeting categories advertisers may use to reach them and the content they might see in ads.
These updates come as Meta continues to navigate the complex landscape of data privacy regulations and user expectations. The company has faced increasing scrutiny from regulators, particularly in the European Union, over its handling of user data and potential anti-competitive practices.
Despite the changes, Meta maintains that it is not collecting, using, or sharing user data in new ways based on the updated privacy policy. The company emphasizes that it remains committed to providing personalized experiences while respecting user privacy.
As the digital landscape evolves, Meta’s move to enhance user control over personal data underscores the growing importance of privacy in the tech industry. Users can expect to see these new privacy features rolling out across Meta’s platforms in the coming weeks.
