Consumer Group Sues Meta Over Illegal Surveillance in Germany and Austria
A consumer protection group, VSV, is suing Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd in Germany and Austria. The lawsuit, backed by litigation financier Padronus, alleges widespread illegal surveillance of users. It could draw attention from the US administration, including President Trump.
The lawsuit, a novel legal tool in Austria, aims to halt Meta's extensive surveillance practices and compensate affected consumers. Many German regional courts have already confirmed Meta's illegal activities in over 700 cases, with potential damages up to €5,000 per person.
Padronus, a leading litigation financier, is funding the case. It specializes in innovative collective and association procedures to enforce consumer rights, using advanced technologies and data-driven analyses. The lawsuit targets Meta's use of software like 'Meta Pixel' for extensive user tracking, even on third-party websites, potentially violating European data protection law, including the GDPR.
The lawsuit, filed by VSV with Padronus as the process financer and law firms Baumeister & Colleagues and Salburg Rechtsanwälte involved, seeks to end Meta's alleged illegal surveillance and compensate consumers. Padronus bears the risk and will only receive a commission if the case is successful. The plaintiffs anticipate US attention but remain committed to enforcing European data protection law.
