Meta blocks EU users from accessing Threads through a VPN2023-07-14 19:05 by DanielaTags: Meta, Threads, VPN
This month, Meta's new Twitter-alternative Threads launched in 100 countries, but not in the European Union, due to potential conflicts between the app's vast data collection and the EU's strict data privacy laws. Immediately, reports emerged that some EU users persisted in downloading Threads anyway - by hiding their location and accessing the app via a virtual private network, or VPN. Now, Meta has confirmed that it has taken measures to block VPN access to Threads in the EU. After multiple EU-based users complained about not being able to access Instagram's Threads app through VPN, Meta confirmed that it is blocking such efforts. As consultant Matt Navarra explains, content, notifications and profiles won't load properly. Some users say they can use Threads without a VPN if they'd previously signed up with one, but you may not want to count on that loophole working. "Threads is not currently available in most countries in Europe, and we've taken additional steps to prevent people based there from accessing it at this time," a Meta spokesperson told TechCrunch. "Europe continues to be an incredibly important market for Meta, and we hope to make Threads available here in the future." The EU considers Meta a technology "gatekeeper" in the region, and the company reportedly wants to be sure Threads' data sharing approach complies with the upcoming Digital Markets Act. Threads is built on Instagram's infrastructure and may import data from that platform. The EU also ruled that Meta has to get permission to show personalized ads, potentially adding more complications. Read more -here-
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