In recent weeks, many users have noticed the appearance of a important message when opening Instagram or Facebook, platforms managed by the company Meta. If you have seen the notice asking you choose how you want to continue using Instagram, you have probably had doubts about its motive and scope. This change is not random, but rather responds to new legal requirements in the European Union related to privacy and the use of personal data.
The new screen, which asks if you agree to certain conditions or prefer an alternative option, is geared towards adapt the operation of Instagram and Facebook to European data protection regulationsThis update is being rolled out gradually to EU citizens, so if you haven't seen it yet, you'll likely receive it soon.
Why Meta demands a decision from users
The background to this message lies in the recent pressure exerted by EU authorities on technology companies. Since the end of 2023 and throughout 2024, the European Union has strengthened its control over how companies manage the privacy of citizens and the processing of their personal informationOne of the most controversial aspects is personalized advertising based on users' profiles and browsing history.
So far, both Instagram and Facebook offered the platform for free in exchange for using your data to show you ads tailored to your interests.This model is under scrutiny from the EU, which considers it too intrusive for European consumers. To comply with the legislation, Meta has launched paid versions of its social networks that allow users to browse without ads and without their information being used to create advertising profiles.
The result of this measure is the decision message: Now the user must choose between accepting personalized ads or paying a subscription to browse ad-free.
Options available after the Instagram message
The notification that Instagram and Facebook raise is totally legitimate And this isn't an attempt at fraud or a notice for violating the terms of use. It simply complies with the law. When you receive it, you'll see two main options:
- Continue using Instagram for free, giving permission for your data to be used to show you tailored ads.
- Subscribe for a monthly fee (approximately 7,99 euros per month), in exchange for eliminating personalized advertising and tracking for this purpose.
The first alternative is the usual one: You'll continue to access all app features for free, but you'll still see ads tailored to your interests and activity. If you choose to pay, you'll get a new ad-free account with extra privacy protections.
What if I don't want personalized ads or pay?
Although the message only mentions these two possibilities, There is a third option aimed at those seeking more control over their privacy. but do not wish to pay a subscription. Although advertising will still appear, it is possible adjust your settings to receive less personalized adsThis makes the ads more generic and less likely to track you.
If you choose this route, you will be indicating to the application that reduce the level of customization, although the experience won't be identical to a paid subscription. To do so, you can follow these steps on Instagram or Facebook:
- Enter the application and access your profile.
- Select the options menu, enter Settings and privacy.
- Accesses Account center and then to Ad preference.
- From Ad Settings, search Advertising Experience and adjust ad personalization.
This does not remove ads, but it reduces the amount of data used to show you targeted ads., increasing anonymity during your browsing.
New habits for European users
The decision that Instagram proposes responds to a context in which the Users are seeking greater transparency about the use of their data and control over their privacy on social networks.The model based solely on "tailored ads" has been challenged, especially with the entry into force of stricter European regulations.
This initiative puts on the table the need to Re-evaluate the relationship between privacy and free access on the InternetWhile some users don't mind seeing personalized ads, others appreciate the option to browse without being tracked, even if it means paying a monthly fee.
The value placed on privacy and how much they are willing to pay for it, now that the decision is in their hands, has become a fundamental aspect in the way users interact with these platforms.
