In a stunning report, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently called out major social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), accusing them of running extensive surveillance programs. These platforms, according to the FTC, collect and retain massive amounts of user data, even from people who don’t have accounts. The investigation also revealed that the platforms fail to adequately protect the privacy of children and teens, raising serious concerns about the impact of these practices.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Social Media as Surveillance Networks
The FTC’s 129-page report is a scathing review of the data practices of several social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Reddit, TikTok, and YouTube. These platforms, the report suggests, engage in what amounts to a “vast surveillance” system. Despite appearing free to use, these platforms profit immensely by gathering extensive user data and selling it to advertisers and other third parties.
FTC Chair Lina M. Khan emphasized the risks, noting that these practices not only invade people’s privacy but can also lead to more serious issues like identity theft and stalking. The investigation found that companies collect data on users even when they are not actively on the platform. This includes hidden tracking tools embedded in other websites that allow platforms to monitor people’s online behavior, regardless of whether they have accounts on those social media sites.
Moreover, the report revealed that social media platforms keep this data indefinitely, providing users with little control over how it’s used. Even non-users aren’t immune, as companies often purchase data from third parties to enhance their surveillance capabilities. This broad-reaching data collection goes beyond basic information such as age and location. It digs into personal details like income, health conditions, and even religious beliefs.
Impact on Children and Teens
One of the most alarming aspects of the FTC’s findings is how these platforms fail to protect children and teens from these invasive practices. According to the report, these younger users, who may not fully understand the extent of the data being collected, are particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of such surveillance. The FTC highlighted that while these platforms claim to offer protections, they often fall short of adequately safeguarding minors.
The investigation shows that social media companies’ drive for profit comes at a high cost to user privacy, particularly for young people. Many parents and advocates are now calling for stronger regulations to ensure better privacy protections for children and teens on these platforms.
TF Summary: What’s Next?
The FTC’s report makes it clear that the current state of data collection by social media platforms is unsustainable. With millions of users unaware of the extent to which their personal data is being gathered and sold, the report may trigger calls for more stringent regulations and a push for better privacy protections. As social media companies continue to profit from user data, the question of how to balance business interests with individual privacy rights will remain a critical issue.