● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact
FTC Urged to Maintain Privacy Audits on Musk's X amid Concerns
Key points
- FTC ordered audits after data handling violations by X.
- Musk's X wants FTC audits terminated, citing changes.
- Advocates argue audits remain necessary for privacy.
- Historical privacy issues involve improper data sharing.
Background on FTC's Order
The FTC imposed audits on X, previously known as Twitter, following privacy violations where user data was improperly shared. Infringements included using personal information submitted for security purposes in ad targeting, affecting around 140 million users. The result was a $150 million fine and a consent decree requiring ongoing oversight.
X’s Request to End Audits
X, now led by Elon Musk, filed a petition to terminate or modify the FTC order, arguing that changes made since rebranding render the audits redundant. The petition highlights overlaps with regulatory requirements under the European Union’s GDPR as a reason for ending the FTC's oversight.
Advocates' Counterarguments
Privacy advocates, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, argue that the audits are still vital due to X's history of privacy mishandling. They assert that a name change does not exempt X from compliance, and maintaining audits is essential to protect user privacy. They submitted these concerns as part of the FTC's open comments period.
Why It Matters
The ongoing debate reflects broader concerns over corporate accountability in data privacy matters, particularly for platforms with expansive reach like X. The FTC's decision could set a precedent for how similar cases are managed in the future, influencing industry standards for user data protection.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
X Corp. petitioned the FTC to modify a 2022 consent order on user data violations. The EFF, along with multiple advocacy organizations, argues this petition should be rejected due to X's inadequate privacy practices despite its claim of a corporate overhaul.
Privacy advocates are urging the FTC to maintain audits of X, citing ongoing risks to user data. X has requested the termination of these audits, claiming changes under Musk have mitigated earlier privacy concerns.