EU Questions Legality of Meta's Privacy Fee, Company Offers Price Cut

Meta proposes nearly halving its ad-free subscription fee in the EU amid scrutiny over compliance with digital regulations.

The EU has expressed doubts about the legality of Meta's privacy fee, suggesting it may not comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Digital Services Act (DSA).
Meta has offered to almost halve its monthly subscription fee for ad-free Facebook and Instagram in the EU, in response to criticism and regulatory scrutiny.
The DMA, aimed at increasing competition in the digital economy, puts new restrictions on Big Tech, including Meta, and requires user consent for data usage.
Privacy activists and consumer groups have criticized Meta's 'pay or OK' approach, arguing it undermines the principle of freely given consent required by EU laws.
The EU is investigating Meta's compliance with the DMA and DSA, with potential fines for breaches up to 10% of annual global turnover.