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Dutch Group Files Subpoena Against Twitter Over Data Misuse

By  |  September 13, 2023

“It’s unfortunately not the first time social media companies are involved in data misuse,” said Wijnand Doeleman, a lawyer for the SDBN. “We are confident that this subpoena will act as a wake-up call and by investigating the exact misuse of data, justice and user protection can be restored.”

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    In a groundbreaking move, a Dutch group has filed a subpoena against social media company X Corp, formerly known as Twitter, over alleged misuse of user data. The summons, filed at Rotterdam District Court, was summoned by the Stichting Data Bescherming Nederland (SDBN). According to lawyers for the SDBN, this subpoena is intended to seek damages for people whose data was allegedly wrongfully tracked and traded between 2013-2021.

    Related: EU’s Breton Says Twitter Cannot Hide From EU Regulation

    When contacted for comment by Reuters, X Corp failed to provide any response. “It’s unfortunately not the first time social media companies are involved in data misuse,” said Wijnand Doeleman, a lawyer for the SDBN. “We are confident that this subpoena will act as a wake-up call and by investigating the exact misuse of data, justice and user protection can be restored.”

    The judge’s ruling will determine whether X Corp has a case to answer, whether an identifiable group of people are affected, and if so, if SDBN is able to represent them. In the meantime, the Netherlands will empower its citizens to demand justice for the wrongfully handled data.

    Source: Reuters