The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has slapped Meta Platforms, Inc. and WhatsApp LLC with a $220 million fine for violating data privacy regulations and consumer protection laws in Nigeria.
According to the FCCPC, the investigation, conducted jointly with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), revealed that Meta Parties engaged in “abusive and invasive practices” against Nigerian data subjects, including appropriating personal data without consent, discriminatory practices, and abuse of dominant market position.
The Commission’s Final Order mandates Meta Parties to comply with prevailing laws, cease exploiting Nigerian consumers, and desist from future similar conduct. The penalty is in accordance with the FCCPA 2018 and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection (Administrative Penalties) Regulations 2020.
“The Commission remains committed to protecting the privacy of Nigerians under the Constitution and all data protection laws,” said the FCCPC.
Details from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission statement are stated below:
– “The totality of the investigation has concluded that Meta Parties have engaged in conduct that constitutes multiple and repeated infringements of the FCCPA and NDPR.”
– “Meta Parties have been provided every opportunity to articulate any position, representations, refutations, explanations, or defenses of their conduct and practices under law.”
– “The Final Order mandates steps and actions Meta Parties must take to comply with prevailing law and cease the exploitation of Nigerian consumers and their market abuse.”
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