Data collection practices of 9 tech companies under investigation

USFTC_investigation.jpg

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sure been busy these days. Last week, it accused Facebook of running a monopoly and demanded the sale of Instagram and WhatsApp. Now, the organisation has placed nine tech companies under investigation.

According to The Verge, the companies being investigated mainly run social media or video streaming platforms. This includes Amazon, ByteDance (which owns TikTok), Discord, Facebook, Reddit, Snap, Twitter, WhatsApp, and YouTube. The goal of the investigation is to find out how these companies collect their users' information, and how it is being used for ads or content.

These companies have up to 45 days to respond to the FTC's demands. Already, some companies like Discord and Twitter have confirmed that they are compiling the necessary information for the FTC. Based on the information provided, the FTC could also choose to take legal action if it finds any 'wrongful behaviour'.

Since these companies have platforms that are used globally, it would be good for us to know how they are collecting our data and monetising it. But what do you think? Let us know in the comments below and stay tuned to TechNave for more trending tech news.