The Data Protection Officer of Hamburg has initiated proceedings against Facebook in order to impose an administrative fine against the company for breaching privacy laws.
According to the authority, the social network operator failed to secure the consent of those who are not members of the platform in using their contact details for marketing purposes. Subject matter of the proceedings are the invitation and address book synchronization functions of the social network. E.g. the Facebook application for the iPhone grants the option to import all details that are stored in the mobile phone to the platform. Thereby, details of those who have not signed up to the platform themselves but are mere contacts of registered users are stored and used by Facebook.
Facebook is also accused of using the details—especially e-mail addresses—of members’ address book contacts when inviting others to join the platform.
Many citizens in Hamburg have apparently lodged complaints with the Data Protection Officer and he has initiated administrative proceedings in order to impose a fine on Facebook for unlawfully using personal data. Under the Telemedia Service Act, a fine of up to EUR 50,000 might be the consequence.
