In 2021, Nigeria launched an investigation into WhatsApp LLC and its parent company, Meta. Authorities sought to determine whether user consent was obtained for the collection and use of their personal data.
Meta Fined for Data Collection Without Consent
Nigeria has recently ordered Meta to pay a $220 million fine. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) accuses WhatsApp, a Meta platform, of collecting and utilizing users’ personal data without their consent.
Official Statement from FCCPC
“The final order imposes a monetary penalty of $220,000,000.00 (at the prevailing exchange rate where applicable), which is consistent with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA),” stated the FCCPC in a communication shared on X.
Allegations of Discriminatory Treatment
Nigerian authorities have been investigating since 2021 to ascertain whether local users were given a choice regarding WhatsApp’s collection of their personal data. The investigation’s findings suggest that Meta may have treated Nigerians differently compared to users in other jurisdictions.
Meta to Appeal the Decision
A Meta spokesperson indicated that the company plans to appeal the decision made by Nigerian authorities.